March 25 (Reuters) - Vinicius Jr said ⁠on Wednesday he feels happier and more confident than ever and ⁠is determined to bring the same success he has enjoyed ‌at Real Madrid to the Brazilian national team as preparations intensify for the World Cup.

The 25-year-old winger's season has been one of contrast. He struggled early in the 2025-26 campaign, enduring ​a 16-match goal drought and facing boos from ⁠sections of the Bernabeu crowd.

That ⁠rough spell is now firmly behind him. Vinicius has found his rhythm, scoring ⁠17 ‌goals and providing 13 assists in 43 appearances across all competitions for Real this season.

Despite a glittering club career that includes two ⁠Champions League triumphs and three LaLiga titles, Vinicius has ​scored eight goals ‌in 45 appearances for the record five-times world champions and is ⁠determined to turn ​promise into international silverware with his second World Cup on the horizon.

"I feel more at ease, I'm happier, and when I'm happier, everyone around me is happier ⁠and more confident too," Vinicius told reporters ahead ​of Thursday's friendly match against France.

"I hope that everything I do for Real I can go on to do here with the Brazilian national team. That's ⁠my biggest goal. It's where I've always dreamed of being, and I want to bring great pride to our country and a lot of joy to our entire nation."