Real Madrid: 5 players who must shine at Real Betis

Real Madrid LW Vinicius Junior

It will likely take some more time before Eden Hazard can start for Real Madrid, because the club has learned its lesson about pushing the left winger too quickly to return from an injury. That first ankle injury suffered against Thomas Meunier against PSG last November has stayed with the Belgian superstar, much to the sadness of the fanbase.

Vinicius Junior will draw another start against Real Betis after playing relatively well against Real Sociedad. All three of Real’s starting forwards could have done better, but Vinicius was noticeably better than either Karim Benzema or Rodrygo Goes. Whereas both of those men were very disappointing, Vini was brightly working to drive into the box and create.

Again, there were aspects of Vinicius’ game that were left wanting, but, as a whole, he played well. The 2020-2021 season is a big one for Vinicius, though. Now in his third season, the young Brazilian must show that he can be a star for Los Blancos. Each year requires more growth from Vinicius, but he is on the right track.

This weekend, he will be tested offensively and defensively by right back Emerson, who is one of La Liga’s most active fullbacks. Emerson won’t give Vinicius any rest.