Recent reports from reputable sources, Marca and Diario AS, suggest that Vinicius Junior is eager to take on a significant responsibility at Real Madrid in the upcoming season – that of the club’s designated penalty taker. With Karim Benzema, the former penalty taker, departing to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad, the Spanish giants are now seeking a new player to step into this crucial role. Vinicius has expressed his readiness to rise to the occasion and shoulder the responsibility.
The Brazilian prodigy has been a standout performer for Real Madrid since his arrival at the club from Flamengo in 2018. With an impressive tally of 225 appearances, 59 goals, and 64 assists across various competitions, he has undeniably become one of the key players in the Madrid giants’ lineup. During the 2022-23 campaign, Vinicius showcased his attacking prowess even further, netting 23 goals and providing 21 assists in 55 matches.
As Real Madrid gears up for the upcoming season, manager Carlo Ancelotti is faced with the task of deciding the team’s penalty taker. Given Vinicius’s integral role in the squad and his almost undisputed starting status, he emerges as a strong contender to be handed this significant responsibility.
Looking ahead to the team’s pre-season preparations, Real Madrid is set to embark on training sessions in the United States, aiming to kick off the 2023-24 campaign with full force. Ancelotti has expressed confidence in the team’s readiness and the fruitful environment that the pre-season in the US offers. The training camp provides an ideal opportunity to fine-tune the team’s form, experiment with new strategies, and assess the players’ current state through competitive matches.
In the midst of the pre-season preparations, Real Madrid will also participate in a pre-season tournament, further honing their skills and camaraderie ahead of the new season. Fans are eagerly anticipating the electrifying El Clasico encounter against Barcelona, adding even more excitement to the pre-season preparations.
With Vinicius Junior’s determination to take on the role of penalty taker and Carlo Ancelotti’s optimism about the team’s preparedness, Real Madrid sets its sights on an exhilarating and competitive season ahead, aiming to reclaim glory both domestically and on the international stage.
