(Football news) It's been over three years since Vinicius Jr. came to Madrid. The Brazilian came with as someone who had the potential to become a world beater. Vinicius was touted to be the next Neymar and Real Madrid didn't think twice before spending €46 million on the 18-year-old.
Just like any teenager that comes to a big club, Vinicius had periods of excellence. He got very limited opportunities under Julen Lopetegui but became a first team regular under Santiago Solari. In the two and a half seasons under Zinedine Zidane, the Brazilian was in and out of the team. His ability in one on ones, take-ons, dribbling and lightning quick pace made him a tough person to defend against.
Vincius' potential was never in question but his inconsistency, decision making and finishing has resulted in him often being criticised. The criticism has been a bit unfair and overboard at times. As an 18-year-old Vinicius Jr. was thrown into deep waters. Being given the responsibility to start games and make things happen for arguably the best club in the world is a tough task for any player let alone a teenager. His decision making has surely improved in the past season or two. His two goals against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League quarter finals were an indication of the same.
Starting predominantly on the right hand side, Vinicius has scored important goals against FC Barcelona, Liverpool and Real Sociedad. He has created chances and provided assists in important games as well. The primary reason for criticism is Real Madrid's lack of goal scoring outlets apart from Benzema.
Now under new manager Carlo Ancelotti, Vinicius Jr. has started the first two games on the bench with Gareth Bale and Eden Hazard being prefered by the Italian manager. Both Hazard and Bale have played well in the games but Vinicius has clearly had more impact. Vinicius scored an injury time goal in Real Madrid's 4-1 away win against Deportivo Alaves. The Brazilian was brought on to rescue the game against Levante when Los Blancos were trailing by a goal. Vinicius equalised not once but twice to secure a point for the Merengues. His first goal was a confident far post finish after Casemiro's long through ball. His second was from an almost impossible angle.
Carlo Ancelotti in his post match press conference has sprayed a lot of praise for the youngster. The manager has also hinted towards the possibility of him starting Real's next game at Real Betis. Vinicius will not get a lot of opportunities with Hazard and Bale both fit and flying again. Players like Rodrygo, Marco Asensio, Luka Jovic and Isco also looked motivated to prove themselves in the two games. If Real Madrid do sign Kylian Mbappe before the transfer deadline then Vinicius' growth will be massively hindered. The signs have been positive but it is still early days for any conclusions to be made.
