Vinicius
Junior, the Real Madrid forward, hopes to end October with his first Ballon d’Or in Paris, but his month begins in France on Wednesday with a Champions League match against Lille.
With star summer recruit Kylian Mbappe recovering from a thigh injury, has resumed his role as Madrid’s main attacking influence. The reigning European champions are unbeaten in 14 matches on the continent, and after a hard-fought triumph over Stuttgart on the first day, they hope to repeat that at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
Vinicius had a slow start to the season but found form in the second half, helping Madrid win a record-extending 15th European Cup.
Despite some teething troubles as he and Mbappe figured out how to play together in the early weeks of the season, the two appeared to be developing a decent rapport before the Frenchman’s injury.
Madrid named Mbappe to their team to face Lille, but he is unlikely to start and may not appear at all. The forward was expected to remain absent until after the forthcoming international break.
“We’re used to playing without (Mbappe) because he wasn’t here last year,” Ancelotti remarked on Saturday, before predicting Vinicius to be named the world’s best player.
I believe so; he deserves it for what he achieved last year, his effect in the Champions League, scoring in the semi-finals and final — I believe he will win,” added the Italian.
Mbappe’s arrival at Madrid at the end of his Paris-Saint Germain contract generated concerns about his compatibility with Vinicius, as both players prefer to play from the left wing.
So far, Ancelotti has kept in his preferred position, generally pairing him with Mbappe in the centre.
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Vinicius was lambasted in his nation after lackluster performances at the Copa America and later in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers.
Brazil’s new coach, Dorival Junior, attempted to lessen the strain on the striker.
“Ultimately, we are calm and can wait for the moment once everything develops,” he stated last week.
In August, it was reported that a Saudi Pro League club had offered a large contract, and the midfielder has not ruled out leaving Madrid.
Vinicius’ Real Madrid contract expires in 2027, and the 24-year-old may consider his alternatives next summer.
For now, his concentration is on driving his side forward in Europe and at home, and he’s clicking into gear on the pitch.
After scoring twice in his first seven appearances for Madrid in all competitions, the Brazilian came off the bench to help Madrid come from behind and defeat Espanyol 4-1 in La Liga on September 21.
Vinicius also scored a goal for Rodrygo in that game and set up Lucas Vazquez for another in the 3-2 victory over Alaves.
Madrid outplayed rivals Atletico Madrid on Sunday, with assisting Eder Militao’s opening goal, and despite the match ending 1-1, Los Blancos pulled within three points of league leaders Barcelona.
Ancelotti replaced Mbappe with Luka Modric in a 4-4-2 against Atletico, but could switch to a 4-3-3 against Lille, with ‘ compatriot Endrick vying for a starting spot.
