“Vinicius deserves the ‘Golden Ball’ after such a season – and not just for what he did this year, but also for the previous year, for his ability to handle the ball. He is a perfect footballer,” Benzema is quoted as saying by Marca. Vinicius Junior has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in world football. The 22-year-old Brazilian winger has been a revelation for Real Madrid over the past couple of seasons, playing a crucial role in the club’s success. Last season, Vinicius enjoyed a breakout campaign, scoring 22 goals and providing 20 assists in all competitions as Real Madrid won the La Liga title and the UEFA Champions League. His performances were consistently impressive, with his dribbling skills, creativity, and end product catching the eye of fans and pundits alike.
This season, Vinicius has taken his game to even greater heights. He has been a talismanic figure for Real Madrid, contributing 17 goals and 15 assists in La Liga so far. His contributions have been vital as Real Madrid have maintained their position at the top of the table and secured a spot in the Champions League knockout stages. Karim Benzema, Vinicius’ teammate and one of the best players in the world, has been full of praise for the young Brazilian. Benzema, who won the Ballon d’Or last year, believes that Vinicius deserves to be in the running for the prestigious individual award this year. Benzema’s comments highlight the immense respect that Vinicius has earned from his peers and the football world. The Frenchman’s words carry significant weight, and his endorsement of Vinicius as a potential Ballon d’Or winner is a testament to the Brazilian’s exceptional performances.
What makes Vinicius’ rise to stardom even more impressive is the fact that he has had to overcome significant challenges early in his career. When he first joined Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018, he was a raw talent with immense potential but struggled to find consistency and adapt to the demands of European football. However, Vinicius has shown remarkable resilience and dedication to his craft. He has worked tirelessly to improve his decision-making, finishing, and defensive work, transforming himself into a well-rounded, dynamic winger who can contribute in all phases of the game.
The Brazilian’s development has been a testament to his hard work, determination, and the excellent coaching he has received at Real Madrid. Under the guidance of Carlo Ancelotti, Vinicius has continued to grow and develop, becoming a key player in the team’s success. Vinicius’ ability to perform at the highest level, combined with his young age, makes him a compelling candidate for the Ballon d’Or. While it may be difficult to unseat the likes of Karim Benzema, who is the current holder of the award, Vinicius’ consistent performances and impact on the game could earn him serious consideration. The upcoming months will be crucial for Vinicius as he looks to continue his impressive form and help Real Madrid challenge for more silverware. If he can maintain his high level of play and lead his team to further success, there is a strong case to be made that he deserves to be recognized as one of the best players in the world.
Vinicius Junior joined Real Madrid from Flamengo in July 2018. The transfer fee amounted to €45 million. The player’s contract with the club is valid until the summer of 2027. In the past season, Vinicius played 39 matches, scored 24 goals, and provided 11 assists. According to the information presented on the Transfermarkt portal, the player’s market value is €180 million. Vinicius’ journey to becoming one of the most sought-after young talents in world football began in his native Brazil. Born in São Gonçalo, a city in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro, Vinicius joined the youth academy of Flamengo, one of the biggest clubs in the country.
It didn’t take long for the young winger to catch the eye of European clubs, with Real Madrid emerging as the front-runners to secure his signature. The Spanish giants were willing to pay a significant sum to acquire Vinicius, recognizing his immense potential and the impact he could have on their team. The transfer to Real Madrid in 2018, at the tender age of 18, was a pivotal moment in Vinicius’ career. Joining one of the most prestigious clubs in the world, with the expectation of immediate success, can be a daunting prospect for any young player. However, Vinicius has shown remarkable maturity and resilience in adapting to the demands of playing for Real Madrid. In his first season at the club, Vinicius faced a steep learning curve, as he adjusted to the faster pace and higher level of competition in European football. While his raw talent was evident, he struggled at times to consistently produce end product and make the right decisions on the pitch.
However, Vinicius’ determination to improve and his willingness to learn from his mistakes have been instrumental in his rapid development. Under the guidance of Real Madrid’s coaching staff, he has worked tirelessly to refine his technical abilities, decision-making, and overall game understanding. The 2021-22 season marked a significant turning point in Vinicius’ career. He emerged as a key player for Real Madrid, contributing 22 goals and 20 assists across all competitions. His performances were a major factor in the club’s success, as they claimed the La Liga title and the UEFA Champions League trophy. Vinicius’ standout displays not only cemented his place as a regular starter for Real Madrid but also earned him widespread recognition and acclaim from the global football community. His ability to create chances, score crucial goals, and impact the game in multiple ways has drawn comparisons to some of the best wingers in the world.
The 2022-23 season has seen Vinicius take his game to even greater heights. He has continued to be a consistent and influential presence for Real Madrid, with his goal contributions and overall impact on the team’s performances earning him plaudits from teammates, coaches, and pundits alike. Vinicius’ market value, which now stands at €180 million according to Transfermarkt, is a testament to his rapidly rising stature in the game. It’s a remarkable achievement for a player who, just a few years ago, was making his first steps in European football. As Vinicius continues to develop and improve, the sky seems to be the limit for the young Brazilian. With his prodigious talent, tireless work ethic, and the support of a world-class club like Real Madrid, he has all the ingredients to become one of the defining players of his generation.
