Real Madrid boasts one of the best squads in Europe and the depth in the squad can be measured with the fact that Los Blancos have as many as 14 players out on loan. The European giants created a stir back in 2019 when they announced the signing of Rodrygo, just a season after Vinicius Jr completed his move to Real Madrid.
The two have been tipped as the next two big superstars in the game by several, however, after almost 2 seasons at the Spanish capital, the two youngsters have not really lived up to their potential. The 4th Official reflects back on Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr’s Real Madrid careers thus far –
Rodyrgo & Vinicius – Report Card
What have they done so far?
Vinicius obviously had his first-team debut before Rodrygo when he was brought on in the Madrid derby in September 2018. The player struggled to play in a comfortable position before finally settling for the left-wing position. However, the struggle for game time continued as Eden Hazard completed his switch from Chelsea and has been higher in the pecking order ever since. In over seventy appearances for Real Madrid, Vinicius has been involved in 21 goals. The major criticism for Vinicius has been his finishing which has not seen a significant leap since his debut.
Rodrygo, on the other hand, has been assumed to be as explosive as Vinicius but his strength certainly lies in his presence of mind and finishing. Rodrygo had a sensational start to his Real Madrid career and even netted a UEFA Champions League hat-trick. However, not all has gone according to plan for the 20-year-old since. Game time has been restricted and limited by the return of Marco Asensio from injury and the reemergence of Lucas Vasquez. In just about two seasons at Real Madrid, Rodrygo has made a name for himself with 46 appearances and 12 goal involvements. Rodrygo has also assisted five goals this season.
What’s in store for the future?
The two youngsters have established distinguished roles in the team which do not cross each other, which might be beneficial to both of them in the long run. Vinicius seems more naturally gifted out of the two but he needs to work hard on his finishing if he wants to prolong his Real Madrid career. Rodrygo has shown immense promise but is far from a finished product. The youngster needs to make the most of the opportunities that come his way. With barely a couple of seasons under their belt, Real Madrid’s attacking duo have a long way to go and good things do seem to be in store for the Santiago Bernabeu faithful.
