Brazilian football icon Dunga has offered a strikingly honest assessment of the Brazilian contingent at Real Madrid, speaking openly about the personalities, pressures and developmental challenges facing Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo and Endrick.
In an interview with MARCA, the 1994 World Cup–winning captain broke down each situation with the clarity of someone who understands the demands placed on Brazil’s brightest stars.
Dunga began with Vinicius, whose behaviour and reactions on and off the pitch continue to generate debate in Spain and Brazil.
When asked about the 25-year-old’s social conduct, the former midfielder gave a balanced response, stressing growth rather than criticism. “We can all always do better,” he said.
“And when we make mistakes, we need to reflect, take two steps back, and rectify them. I’ve learned that when someone attacks you, sometimes it’s not worth responding.”
On the other hand, Dunga drew an important distinction that Vinicius is a leader through talent, not through personality.
“In my opinion, Vini is a technical leader, a football leader, not a locker-room leader, not what you would call a traditional captain.
“Vini is a technical leader who makes plays and leads from the front. And Brazil still needs a locker-room leader.”
Thoughts on Rodygo
Moving to Rodrygo, Dunga addressed the question that has divided many fans in recent months – should the forward consider leaving Real Madrid in January ahead of the 2026 World Cup?
Dunga shared his take on Rodrygo’s situation at Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
“Brazilian players are different from European players. They are special players who always want to play. If they don’t play, they get sad and don’t feel integrated,” he said.
“European players who don’t play can be calm, they don’t panic. Brazilian players don’t. They always want to play.”
He argued that Rodrygo’s current challenges are not about talent, but adaptation.
“With Ancelotti, there was an ecosystem in which Carletto controlled everything. Now it’s different because Xabi’s ideas are different.
“Players need time to assimilate this new way of working. Rodrygo needs time.”
Finally, Dunga expressed concern over Endrick’s lack of minutes, calling the situation “a big problem” for a young player still at a critical developmental stage.
“When a player is young, he has to play. The only way to improve is by playing, not by training,” he warned.
He compared the teenager’s development to flight training, stating, “A pilot has to log a lot of flying hours to become mature.
“That’s what’s happening with Endrick. To improve, he needs to play more,” he concluded.