Vinícius Júnior has struck an upbeat tone about life under Real Madrid's new manager José Mourinho, even as speculation continues over his future amid reported interest from Arsenal. The Brazil winger, 26, is entering the final year of his Real Madrid contract, and the club and player are said to be locked in negotiations while Arsenal explore a possible move, meaning his positive public comments sit alongside genuine uncertainty behind the scenes.

Speaking to Real Madrid TV after his second day of pre-season training, Vinícius said Mourinho "wants me to be as I have always been: happy, cheerful and playing my football." He has scored 128 goals and provided 100 assists for Real Madrid, making the club reluctant to lose him for free next year, and he arrives at pre-season having been Brazil's top scorer at the World Cup with four goals, despite their last-16 exit.