Real Madrid rising star Vinicius Junior on pressures as Brazil wonderkid

David Cooper - Writer 13:45 19/06/2018
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  • Real Madrid rising star Vinicius Junior has revealed the pressures that come with being regarded as the next biggest talent in Brazilian football.

    Los Blancos beat a number of the world’s top clubs to sign Vinicius for a record €45 million (Dh192.7m) fee, despite the Brazil U-17 star having never played a senior match with his club Flamengo.

    Regarded as the eventual heir to Neymar with Selecao, the Rio de Janeiro native will officially join up with the Bernabeu side when he turns 18 next month.

    Speaking to Marca, Vinicius brushed off suggestions that the pressure of being the most expensive player under the age of 18 could become overwhelming.

    “I know what my potential is. I know how far I can go. I only have to work a lot, carry on as I have until now with Flamengo. I’m sure God will honour me,” he said.

    “People who come through Flamengo’s youth system are used to pressure. Playing in the youth team for the national team helps a lot. I’ve spent some time evolving and learning how to handle the pressure and the responsibility.

    “I know that Real Madrid is a different club, one of the biggest in the world. I’m going to leave the biggest club in Brazil for the biggest club in Spain.”

    Vinicius will also be joined in the Spanish capital by compatriot Rodrygo, after the club confirmed a €45m (Dh190m) deal for the 17-year-old forward last week.

    Rodrygo, who is to complete his move to Spain in 2019, made his debut for Santos at the age of 16 last November and has scored five goals in nine league appearances in the Brazilian top flight.

    “It’s a phenomenon that God chose him too. Being able to play with him is an honour. He’s always followed me, he always wanted me to be a success. I think he’s a bit of a fan of mine,” he said.

    “I want things to go well for him because he’s a player with my characteristics and it will be a pleasure to play for Real Madrid next to him.

    “I dream about making history at Real Madrid and with Brazil with him.”

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