Real Madrid currently have two of the best forwards in world football. Vinicius Junior and Karim Benzema have already combined to score 23 goals with 12 assists in all competitions so far this season, and they won’t be stopping anytime soon. The left winger Vinicius, in particular, has looked progressively more dangerous with each successive matchweek.
As a 21-year-old, Vinicius is locked in as the future of Real Madrid. He has been more than worth the initial 46 million euro investment from Flamengo.
But at 33, Benzema won’t be a part of the team in five years’ time. Real Madrid will have a new superstar striker at the Santiago Bernabeu, carrying on the tradition of legendary No. 9’s playing for the world’s most prestigious club.
So who will join Vinicius in Los Blancos’ future attack? Here is a look at the ideal front three in five years. One of the choices may surprise you.
LW Vinicius Junior
We begin with Vinicius Junior, who has the left wing position locked down. Kylian Mbappe is at his best on the left side of the attack, but Vini is not going anywhere. He has earned this spot, and his love for Real Madrid is obvious. Vini is a player every club dreams to have, and Real are fortunate to have him in their ranks. They will not displace him. The left wing position is the only one that fits the young Brazilian.
So far this season, Vinicius has been one of the very best players in Europe – not just the most improved. He takes on defenders with confidence, knowing he can beat anyone one-on-one. More than that, he has real attacking intent, using his dribbling skills to either create a scoring chance for himself or for a teammate. Quietly, he is heading into elite status as both a goal-scorer from the wing and as a creator in the penalty area.