Real Madrid: Resetting goal, assist predictions for every forward in 2020-21

RW/LW Marco Asensio

Marco Asensio is capable of playing on the left or the right, though Zinedine Zidane usually favors using him on the right side so that he can take advantage of the Andalusian’s rocket left foot to score some goals.

The 24-year-old has yet to score this season despite receiving some golden chances, but he did finally provide an assist as Rodrygo Goes’ injury replacement in the pre-Christmas 2-0 win over Granada at home.

Asensio looked great in that game for the first time in months, as his last strong performance was a substitute display in a clean sheet home win over Real Valladolid.

This man is one of Real’s biggest X-Factors in the title race. If he can play like he did this summer and reach his potential, Los Blancos will be so much better off.

Prediction: 6 goals, 3 assists

Vinicius Junior

And then there is Vinicius Junior, who is at least as much of an X-Factor as Marco Asensio. To be honest, I have higher hopes for Vinicius, but that’s not a slight on Asensio. It’s just that when I look at Vini’s character, I see a guy who elevates himself when he feels pressure. He is still learning, but as we saw in the most recent Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu and even in the win this year at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, he has the fighting spirit needed at Real Madrid.

So who better than to provide an unexpected lift in the title race for Los Merengues? Vinicius had a great start to the season, and while he was woeful for most of November and December, he did recently show signs of improvement in the win over Athletic Club.

Vini’s work ethic and responses show his character. I believe he will have a great second-half of the season for Real Madrid.

Prediction: 9 goals, 10 assists