Vinicius Jr stages Nike relaunch protest before receiving horror challenge from former Arsenal man in Real Madrid’s win over Valencia

Vinicius Jr wore a pair of blacked-out boots for Real Madrid on Thursday as he continued his protest against sportswear giants Nike.

The Brazilian winger played the first half of Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Valencia wearing all-black boots and without the Nike logo.

Vinicius then swapped his boots at half-time for a white pair adorned with a prominent Nike swoosh before scoring his side’s second goal.

It was an eventful night at the Santiago Bernabeu for the 22-year-old who suffered a horror tackle from former Arsenal defender Gabriel Paulista who was then given his marching orders.

But it was his choice of shoes that grabbed the headlines following his current deal with Nike which began his partnership with the Brazilian in 2013.

Vinicius has extended his contract with the American company until 2028, but recently got upset after Nike dropped him from a number of their major advertising campaigns.

He also grew frustrated with the terms of his deal and wondered if it reflected his growing value.

In December, Vinicius asked his lawyers to terminate the deal but soon realized there was no exit clause.

However, a source close to The Athletic has revealed that the player’s contract with Nike has expired.

“We’re in no rush to sign with another brand,” the source said.

“The key for us is finding the right company that appreciates and believes in Vini and is willing to invest in its brand through campaigns and activations around the world.”

The Brazilian’s goal allowed Real to reduce the gap with leaders Barcelona to five points.

The pair will face off next month at the Bernabeu in what could prove to be a decisive El Clasico to determine the outcome of the LaLiga title this season.