It is a reality that Vinícius Júnior is not having his best season and that harms both Real Madrid and himself. Since he lost the Ballon d'Or to Rodri, his performance has notably declined. Sometimes he seems apathetic, other times too individualistic and directly disconnected from the match.
His on-field relationship with Mbappé still doesn't work well and it has been noticeable, as they shine more separately than together. Additionally, rumors about a possible move to Saudi Arabia for a multimillion-dollar salary don't help at all. However, Florentino Pérez still fully trusts his Brazilian star.
Lamine Yamal dazzles while Vinícius raises doubts
Meanwhile, Vinícius Júnior navigates through criticism, Barça is delighted with Lamine Yamal. The young winger has been the great revelation of the season. At just 17 years old, he already amazes with his maturity and dribbling.
Many fans see him as a future Ballon d'Or winner. Comparisons with Vinícius are starting to arise everywhere. But has Lamine Yamal really reached that level?
The photo of Vinícius Júnior that silences the comparisons
To respond, Real Madrid fans have shared a devastating photo for anyone. In it, Vinícius Júnior appears lifting the MVP trophy of two matches from the last Champions League. He won it in both the first and second legs of the semifinals against Bayern, where he was crucial in helping Real Madrid win their fifteenth.
That double recognition was key to getting Real Madrid into the grand final. The white supporters make it clear: "Being MVP in the semifinals is not for everyone." This way, they remind that Vinícius Júnior has already excelled on the biggest nights, while Lamine Yamal still has a long way to go.
Lamine Yamal's talent still has a way to go
Although Lamine Yamal dazzles, he still has much to prove. His talent is undeniable, but he lacks decisive European nights like the one against Inter, where he was not crucial. Vinícius Júnior has already left his mark on stages where only the best shine.
At Barça, they trust that Lamine will keep growing with the humility that characterizes him. Flick and Deco know that comparisons only increase the pressure. The challenge is for Lamine to keep his feet on the ground to go far.
The duel between Vinícius Júnior and Lamine Yamal will mark the upcoming Clásicos. Each one wants to be the reference for their team in the coming years. But, for now, the Brazilian's photo in the Champions League makes it clear who has won more and who has to learn from the other.