Real Madrid News
Vinicius Jr opens up on Real Madrid’s start to the season, derby preparations
Real Madrid will face their biggest test of the 2022/23 campaign so far when they lock horns with local rivals Atletico Madrid in the derby at the Civitas Metropolitano on Sunday night.
Los Blancos are at the top of the La Liga standings currently, having won each of their five matches in the competition so far. And they head into the weekend clash on the back of a 2-0 win over RB Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League.
With Karim Benzema’s involvement on Sunday highly doubtful, all eyes will be on Vinicius Jr and how he performs, considering that he has stepped up and taken over the mantle of Real Madrid’s main man in the Frenchman’s absence.
The 22-year-old has racked up a return of five goals and three assists from eight matches in all competitions already and will be the biggest threat going forward for Real Madrid.
Having enjoyed a stunning season last time out, Vinicius is now hoping to better his return in the current campaign. Ahead of the derby, he outlined his ambitions for the season, saying (h/t Arancha Rodriguez):
“I am very excited about this season and I am hoping that it will be the same as or better than last season. I have the trust of everyone and the coach, who always tells me that he has confidence in front of goal.”
Talking about the preparations for the derby against Atletico Madrid, Vinicius said: “We are working hard to get to the match in good shape.”
On Real Madrid’s excellent start to the season, which has seen them win eight in eight across all competitions, the 22-year-old star said:
“All the effort we have made in the preseason counts and is the key. The main reasons for the good start are our hard work, the mix of experienced and younger players.”
There is no secret that Real Madrid might consider a move for a new striker in the coming summer. With Karim Benzema slowly nearing the end of his career, the club are looking for a viable alternative ahead of the new season.
Carlo Ancelotti has been left impressed by the performances of Rodrygo in the centre forward position. But the club could still use the services of a more recognised option in the number nine position.
The Spanish giants are reportedly assessing La Liga for a potential low-cost option. But they are also open to looking through in other leagues, in their bid to add more depth in the attacking department.
To that end, Fabrizio Romano claims Real Madrid are eyeing a swoop for Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool star has become the latest player to be shortlisted by Los Blancos, with his current contract at Liverpool expiring at the end of the season.
Formerly of TSG Hoffenheim, Firmino has a stellar track record of performing in Europe. He has scored 110 goals in 361 competitive matches during his time at Liverpool, winning the Premier League and the Champions League title.
A centre forward by trade, Roberto is known for his tactical flexibility and the ability to shift into wider areas to build up the player.
It makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid, who would prefer a versatile striker in their ranks that can not only provide cover for Benzema but also the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid, though, are yet to hold any discussions with Roberto Firmino just yet. He has just been added to the list of targets and one would expect the Spanish giants to make a move once the season is over and the player becomes a free agent.
