Real Madrid: 5 key players to watch against Real Valladolid

Real Madrid FW Vinicius Junior

While Marco Asensio and Eden Hazard could be healthy enough to make their returns for Los Blancos on Matchday 4, they would be more likely to come off the bench than start. Therefore, Vinicius Junior and Rodrgyo Goes remain the likely starters if Zinedine Zidane goes with a 4-3-3.

Vinicius had a good game against Real Sociedad despite the team’s lack of goals, as his work rate started plenty of chances. The young Brazilian excels at getting into the penalty box and carrying the ball into the final third beforehand. He is one of the most talented players in La Liga, and Madridistas are looking for him to make a huge third-year leap.

Real Valladolid no longer have Mohammed Salisu in central defense, so Real Madrid’s attack will see benefits in this home game. Vinicius and Marcelo could combine to devastating effect on the left-hand side, providing Karim Benzema, Luka Jovic, or potentially both with teasing deliveries.

Vinicius Junior needs to keep starting, getting in reps, and finding consistency in the final third as an assist provider and goal-scorer. It isn’t easy, but Vinicius is getting there. Real Madrid are wisely believing in the 20-year-old’s talent, and he is a fast learner, no doubt. He’s also shown good leadership traits, giving the club more confidence in his ability to keep growing.