The Brazilian surprised his world against Atalanta with a unique version of his football.
Vinicius Junior came to Bergamo to once again surpass his own limits. While initially he was only due to return in 10 days, the Brazilian was not only called up for this crucial match, but also played the entire match.
At the Gewiss Stadium, Vini managed to score his fifth goal in Europe this season, a first in his career, having until then been rather adept at decisive phases. All this while showing a new version of his football. A change in his positioning and movements which ended up opening spaces for his teammates.
“The key was mobility in attack. Vinicius moved a lot to leave the center to Kylian. We scored the third thanks to a change of position between Vinicius and Bellingham”, confided Carlo Ancelotti after the important victory against Atalanta (2-3). A new role as playmaker which completely destabilized Gasperini's men.
At Benzema
The Brazilian often performed the functions of a midfielder to circulate the ball forward and help the team in support. A facet which is reminiscent of a certain Karim Benzema, presenting himself to receive the balls in more distant positions while enjoying his electric and overflowing football. An “inside” match that broadens its palette.
Real's 1-3 was also born from a new gesture by Vinicius in the Merengue system. The Brazilian came down low to receive the ball, right where Kroos was previously officiating, and he found it far in front of Bellingham, with a delicious pass. The Englishman got rid of De Roon with a feint and sent the ball into the back of the net, giving full meaning to the change of position of number 7. The Brazilian's heat map perfectly highlights Madrid's plan against 'Atalanta.
He has certainly evolved on the attacking front, but it is mainly in the construction in midfield that he has distinguished himself the most. He made the connection with his teammates and the opponents, a little confused, even hesitated to come out on him to stop a player who, until now, has always done damage on the left flank. A new mobility which makes his football even more dangerous and indecipherable. Goal and assist, 63% passing efficiency (26/41), two successful long passes and 4 duels won. The Vinicius 2.0 is born.
