Real Madrid eased past Real Valladolid on Saturday night with a 3-0 win, courtesy of Kylian Mbappe’s first hat-trick for Los Blancos. After a tricky opening few months in the Spanish capital, Mbappe has adapted to life at the club, and it is showing on the pitch, with a return to his old self.
As Mbappe stocks go up, Vinicius Junior stocks have begun to fall. The Brazilian was sent off against Valencia in their first game of the year, and has missed their last two La Liga games against Las Palmas and Valladolid – arguably Mbappe’s two best performances of the season.
While discussion of whether Real Madrid are a more rounded team without Vinicius seem far-fetched, it has been reported by Cadena SER that Mbappe has replaced Vinicius as the leader of the Real Madrid dressing room. Despite his initial struggles for form, Mbappe’s personality has won over his teammates.
The French superstar is relaxed, a natural in front of the media, and has avoided controversy since arriving in Spain, with the exception of his trip to Sweden during an international break. His easy way about him and quiet confidence have made him a natural leader. This comes in contrast with Vinicius Junior, who will also miss this week’s Champions League clash with Brest due to suspension.
The Brazilian’s battle to control his emotions, his ill discipline and habit for making himself the centre of attention rather than the team have tired the Real Madrid dressing room somewhat. With Mbappe now challenging Vinicius in terms of performances, Vinicius has lost some weight in the dressing room.
Real Madrid and in particular Carlo Ancelotti have trodden a fine line between supporting Vinicius through some tough times, obviously the wave of racial abuse he has received most notably, and healthy criticism. The Italian and Vinicius’ teammates have noted on several occasions that Vinicius is learning and trying to control himself in public, but has been booked 10 times and sent off this season.
Vini is a fine footballer, the only thing that is holding him back is his attitude towards referees and opposition supporters.
Mbappe isn’t as good as Vini but his attitude is very good which is something Vini needs to replicate.
This is a white lie… Valencia vibes
If there is a leader in that young crop of forwards then it is Jude – not Vini and MBappe has not replace anyone. He is now putting up performances that make him a key contributor towards the consistency of the team. In the Salzburg game Vini scored 2 great goals in the 2nd half so as long as the scorers are rotating, RM form is maintained.
Yes, definitely Vini Jnr has discipline issues but the team’s reliance is not totally on him so Madrid can let it play out and see.
When it comes to giants like Madrid, Barça in La Liga, there will always be egos & rivalries. Not surprised at all. I’m very sure Vini Jr himself doesn’t mind his “role” in the locker room is “being replaced” by Mbappe, it’s just irresponsible journalism by Football Espana & its older cousin Football Italia to stir up controversies.