Real Madrid star and Brazil international Vinicius Junior is set to end his contract with Nike after he was excluded from the company’s World Cup promotional video for the national team.
The 22-year-old has risen to prominence as one of the most exciting footballers in the world and has become a regular star for both club and country. Vinicius bagged 22 goals last season including the winning strike in Madrid’s Champions League final victory over Liverpool. He is already into double figures this campaign as his strong form continues.
That has ensured that the Brazilian forward has become one of the most marketable players in football, due to his prominence and status at two of the most recognisable teams in both the club and international game.
As detailed by a report from Brazilian media outlet O Globo, the forward has contacted lawyers to seek litigation aimed at ending his deal with Nike which is due to run through until 2028. It details how Vinicius feels disappointed with the company in the belief that he is undervalued.
Vinicius struck a deal with Nike when he was aged just 13 and part of his reported dissatisfaction with the company is economic, as his deal has now become dated due to his prominence not only on the pitch but off it too – with millions of followers across social media platforms. The footballer renewed his deal with the company in 2018 through to 2028 but has subsequently become an established star in that timeframe.
Vinicius reportedly made the decision to end his obligation to Nike weeks ago, after not being included in a promotional video from the kit manufacturer to promote Brazil at this year’s World Cup. His club teammate Rodrygo Goes and Tottenham forward Richarlison were in the video.
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It has also been highlighted how Vinicius has been wearing the Mercurial football boots throughout the World Cup – an old model from a previous Nike collection. Vinicius currently is involved in limited Real Madrid promotional content due to the club’s deal with Adidas.
The latest news is set to come as another blow to Nike after Brazilian superstar Neymar broke his long-standing arrangement with the company last year. Neymar had advertised Nike for 11 years but ended his agreement to join Puma in a reported £23m-per-year deal.
