ROME, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Wesley of AS Roma is challenged by Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid during the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Stage MD2 match between AS Roma and Real Madrid CF at Stadio Olimpico on October 14, 2026 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images)
Jose Mourinho praised Wesley after Real Madrid’s dramatic 4-3 comeback win over Roma, admitting the Brazilian impressed him more than he expected.
Speaking to TNT Sports via TuttoMercatoWeb, the Real Madrid boss praised the full-back after coming back from 3-1 down with three late goals at the Stadio Olimpico in his first return to Rome since being sacked in January 2024.
Vinícius learned just hours before kick-off that he was facing a four-game LaLiga ban and was sent off shortly after his careless back gave Donyell Malen the chance for Roma’s second goal in the 59th minute.
Mourinho: “Wesley impressed me more than I thought”
“I already knew he was a good player, but it was the first time I saw him play in this position and he impressed me more than I thought,” Mourinho said. “He defends very well and then moves forward with great speed. Wesley is a really great player.”
The Gypsy was very happy with this compliment. “I’m happy, it’s nice to receive praise from a coach like Mourinho,” he said. “I just prayed and said to myself, ‘I have to stop Vinicius, I have to stop Vinicius.’
“I was prepared and I’m happy with my game. I still have a lot to improve, but I’m happy with my individual performance.”
The night still ended in disappointment for Wesley. He was suspended in the second half and was one of the players Antonio Rüdiger shrugged off for the winner in extra time as Roma conceded three goals from corners.
“I’m not happy with the team’s result because we deserved to win,” he said.