Analysing Real Madrid’s Brazilian future potential superstars
By Hasan Karim
With pre-season looming and a new season lurking, Real Madrid fans have plenty to look forward too. With a host of new signings, Madridista’s will also be treated to the potential rise of three of Brazil’s finest young talents.
Vinicius Jr impressed Real Madrid fans as he took the European stage by storm last season. Starting his campaign playing for Castilla, after then coach Julen Lopetegui decided the Brazilian needed time to adapt, he was given his chance to shine by Santi Solari. The 19-year-old needed little time to make an impression as he lit up the Bernabeu and left fans craving more.
His lightning pace, tricky feet and sheer bravery on the ball saw many take notice of the potential that Vincius has. The former Flamengo man was a menace against Atletico Madrid and Barcelona and whilst he may lack a finishing edge in front of goal, his development under Zinedine Zidane proves to be something that Real Madrid fans should be very excited about.
Similarly, Vinicius’ compatriot, Rodrygo Goes has finally made his move to the Spanish capital. Whilst it seems likely that he will spend sometime with the Castilla, the potential of Rodrygo is something that has been revered since his signing was made official. The youngster is considered to be more of a finisher than his team-mate Vinicius, which was reflected in his goals scored for club and country. Despite the fact he has yet to register over 0.83xG in a game yet, Rodrygo has impressively registered 1.32xG for every 1.0xG recorded. Should he be given the chance, a player who already looks so calm in-front of goal on the end of service from Toni Kroos and Co. could prove to be a huge asset for Real.
At the opposite end of the pitch, Eder Militato also joined the club this summer from Porto. The central defender enjoyed an all-round solid campaign last season. Standing at 6’2, Militao is a versatile defender, capable of playing as both a Right-back and a Centre-back.
Despite spending just a single season in Portugal, Militao made his claim for a starting spot early on. After dominant performances in his opening matches, many were wondering how long the Brazilian would remain a Porto player. Ranking second for the best average match rating of any defender in Portugal, Militao is both a solid defender and also capable of taking the ball forwards.
Eder Militão: Statistically calculated WhoScored strengths, weaknesses and styles of play
— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) November 28, 2018
For more player stats -- https://t.co/BzAUhgOwyb pic.twitter.com/FOeU9cG4h2
The Brazilian is happy to play the ball and seems comfortable enough when dribbling too. Militao possesses solid pace and ball control, which allows him to carry the ball before looking for a pass. With the club already in possession of 4 central defenders, Militao will be in a battle for a spot in the team. However, his versatility to play as a full-back and centrally will certainly help his case. With a strong showing for Brazil as they lifted the Copa America, Militao could very well find himself succeeding Sergio Ramos within a few years.
Like Ronaldo Nazario, Roberto Carlos, Marcelo and Casemiro before them, in Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo and Militao, Real Madrid have three of Brazil’s best prospects ready to go. With other stars ageing out, it could be their chance to shine and this season could prove to formative sparks to light the fire for the future.