MADRID, Nov. 2 (Xinhua) -- Real Madrid coach Santiago Solari on Friday praised young Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr but refused to say whether he would form part of his side when Real Madrid entertain Valladolid on Saturday afternoon.
The 18-year-old Vinicius, who joined Real Madrid in the summer for 45 million euros, was largely ignored by Julen Lopetegui who sent him to the Real Madrid B-team (Castilla) to gain experience.
However, Solari's promotion from Castilla to the Madrid first team, on a temporary basis has given Vinicius a chance and he was one of the standout performers in the 4-0 Copa del Rey win away to Melilla on Wednesday.
That display has led to calls for the 18-year-old to start against Valladolid, but speaking to the press on Friday, Solari was wary of placing too much pressure on the youngster.
"It's simple, he needs time and football," said Solari. "He has time ahead of him because he is only 18 years old, and to gain experience you have to play."
"It's a normal process and even more so when you have just arrived at a club, although it is easy to see the talent he has," continued Solari.
The Madrid coach added that if Vinicius was in the squad, "he's there to play... everyone contributes, that's what a team does," he said, before looking at his home debut as Madrid coach.
"You feel special things when you go as a fan. It happens to me when I go to the stands. As a player, it is indescribable but I don't think that it will be too far from what I felt as a fan," he commented
If Real Madrid are able to win their next three games, there is a chance Solari could be given the job on a permanent basis, but he insisted the only thing on his wind was the next game. "I know it's a cliche, but that is what I am focused on."
