Arsenal’s lack of success in their search for Vini Jr. became the butt of jokes in England on August 12, 2026. John Obi Mikel, former midfielder for Chelsea and the Nigerian national team, expressed his skepticism regarding the hopes of the London club’s fans, stating that he never believed in the Brazilian striker’s departure from Real Madrid. On his podcast The Obi One, Mikel recalled the messages sent by Arsenal fans during the period in which Vini Jr.’s name was associated with the team.
“I don’t know what they were smoking,” Mikel said of the fans’ belief.
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Mikel detailed that, in his analysis, Vini Jr. took advantage of the interest shown by Arsenal to reach a more advantageous agreement with Real Madrid. The Brazilian player, in fact, sealed his renewal with the Spanish team and remained in the squad for the current season.
“I think he was using you to get a better deal in Madrid. He was using you. I don’t know why Arsenal fans really believed that Vinícius Júnior would leave Real Madrid to go to Arsenal,” said the former athlete.
The former Chelsea player also emphasized the striker’s successful career with the Spanish team. According to Mikel, Vini Jr. had no reason to leave Real Madrid, a club where he has already lifted trophies of great relevance, such as the Champions League.
“This guy wins titles. He won a lot of titles at Real Madrid. He wants to win titles season after season, the Champions League, LaLiga. He’s already had the taste of winning the Champions League, and Arsenal have never won,” said Mikel, comparing the clubs’ achievements.
Mikel revealed that he had been the target of criticism from Arsenal fans after previously declaring that he did not believe in signing Vini Jr. Some fans even announced that they would return to digital platforms to provoke him if the Brazilian actually signed with the team.
“All the Arsenal fans attacked me when I said that before. They said they would come back to destroy me when Vinícius joined them. I was thinking that was just my opinion. I never thought he would leave Madrid”, added the former player.