Real Madrid played its only preseason friendly this Tuesday against Tirol in Austria. The white team settled the match with a convincing 4-0, with Mbappé as the main figure by scoring a brace. However, not everyone shined.
Vinícius Júnior went unnoticed in the attack. He tried to take on defenders, look for imbalance, but he didn't manage to create any real danger for the opposing goal. His offensive involvement was limited and, in that sense, he remained in the background.
Tomás Guasch's opinion
Tomás Guasch didn't want to stay on the sidelines and offered his analysis on Vinícius and the team's situation. He pointed out that "it's very difficult to demand from this team, the only one in La Liga, that they play as if they'd had a month of training." The mini preseason has a big impact, and the players still need to adapt.
Guasch emphasized that, although Vinícius didn't stand out with the ball, he showed a different attitude. "This Vinícius might be more hard-working than brilliant, and that shows they have in mind that what happened last year can't happen again," he stated.
A change of approach
The Brazilian seems to have understood that collective work is essential. If last year he was criticized for disconnecting at certain moments, now he looked more committed to the team. Xabi Alonso has asked everyone to take part in the collective dynamic, and Vinícius seems to have taken note.
This change of approach doesn't guarantee goals or spectacular dribbles, but it does show maturity and a willingness to improve. For many, that's a key first step before regaining his top offensive level.
The past and the pressure
Vinícius arrived at Real Madrid after a brilliant campaign, in which he established himself as one of the best in the world. He'd been a Champions League champion and scored a goal at Wembley that will go down in history. His confidence was at its highest.
However, last season was complicated, and the disappointment after what happened with the Ballon d'Or affected his performance. His level wasn't the desired one and the team noticed it at decisive moments. In addition, his attitude on the field wasn't always appropriate, something he's now looking to correct.
Looking ahead
To reconcile with Madridists, Vinícius must leave behind the doubts from last season. The demands will be at their highest this season, but what was seen against Tirol sends a positive message: there's commitment and effort for the good of the team.
Tomás Guasch sums it up: Vinícius doesn't dazzle yet, but his effort shows that he knows what's expected of him. In other words, his individual brilliance may return, but collective responsibility comes first.
Real Madrid and its fans will be watching closely. Vinícius Júnior has the opportunity ahead to balance talent and commitment. The preseason is just beginning, and the most important thing is that, at least in terms of attitude, he's already taken a firm step forward.