Real Madrid took all three points yesterday from Butarque after beating Leganés in a solid match. Carlo Ancelotti's men controlled the game in general, although they couldn't relax until Vinícius Júnior gifted Kylian Mbappé the goal for 1-0. Once again, the Brazilian winger was the best player on the team. Despite not scoring, he left the field as the star of the match.
However, the joy of victory has been marred by bad news for Carlo Ancelotti and the Real Madrid fans. Vinícius Júnior has suffered a hamstring injury and will be out for approximately a month. This setback comes at a critical time of the season. Just 72 hours from now, on Wednesday, Real Madrid will face Liverpool in a decisive Champions League match.
Vinícius Júnior's Injury Causes Changes
Vinícius Junior's injury is a major blow to Carlo Ancelotti's plans, who has relied on the Brazilian as an attacking leader throughout the season. With his absence, the Italian coach will have to reorganize the offense to try to take the three points from Anfield. However, Rodrygo, Vinícius's natural replacement on the left flank, will not be the chosen one.
According to reports, Carlo Ancelotti has decided that Kylian Mbappé will take Vinícius Júnior's position as left winger. He already tried this option against Leganés. That day, the Frenchman was comfortable and effective in the role, so he will repeat thtat at Anfield. Meanwhile, Rodrygo, who is still recovering, will be left out of the starting eleven.
Of course, regardless of who plays on the left, the reality is that Real Madrid is missing a lot without Vinícius Júnior. Number 7 is the most decisive player in the world for the final third. With enough space, he is unstoppable. That's why his absence will be so hard, since neither Mbappé nor Rodrygo are, right now, at Vinícius's level.
Living without Vinícius Júnior: a Challenge for Real Madrid
Vinícius Júnior's absence comes at a crucial stage of the season, with key clashes in both the Champions League and La Liga. The team's ability to adapt to this loss will be decisive. There is no shortage of options, but none of them can match the level of number 7.
Real Madrid will have to face the challenge without its great offensive leader. The club must hope that Mbappé and the rest can keep up and overcome this setback. Anfield will be the first big test without Vinícius Júnior. All eyes will be put on how the team behaves without its most decisive player.