Vinicius Junior is looking to kick off a memorable October, one that could see him claim his first Ballon d’Or, as Real Madrid prepare to face Lille in the Champions League on Wednesday. The Brazilian forward has stepped up as Madrid’s main attacking threat with Kylian Mbappé sidelined by a thigh injury.
Real Madrid, the reigning European champions, remain unbeaten in their last 14 matches in Europe. After a tough opening win against Stuttgart, they aim to continue their impressive form at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
Vinicius, who had a slow start last season before finding his rhythm and helping Madrid to their 15th European Cup, is in fine form once again. Despite initial concerns about how he and Mbappé would fit together after the Frenchman’s summer arrival, the pair seemed to have forged a solid partnership before Mbappé’s injury.
Madrid included Mbappé in their squad for the Lille match, but coach Carlo Ancelotti hinted the star striker may not feature. “We’re used to playing without him,” said Ancelotti, confident in Vinicius’ ability to shine. The Italian manager even backed the 24-year-old Brazilian to win the Ballon d’Or, acknowledging his pivotal role in Madrid’s Champions League success last season.
Mbappé’s absence has seen Vinicius reclaim his preferred left-wing position, and he has responded by rediscovering his form. A substitute appearance in Madrid’s 4-1 La Liga victory over Espanyol saw him score and provide an assist, continuing his creative influence in the following 3-2 win against Alaves.
Although Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw by Atletico Madrid on Sunday, Vinicius provided the assist for Eder Militao’s goal and remains central to Ancelotti’s plans. With Mbappé likely on the bench, the Italian coach may revert to a 4-3-3 formation, with young Brazilian Endrick also pushing for a starting spot.
Meanwhile, Mbappé’s younger brother Ethan, who joined Lille this summer, will miss the match due to injury.