Vinicius Junior, the Brazilian attacker, reportedly wanted to acquire Cristiano Ronaldo‘s former No.7 shirt at Real Madrid, a bold move on his part.
Since joining the Blancos on a free transfer from Flamengo in 2018, the highly rated South American has worn the No.20 jersey. His stock has risen recently, with 45 goals in the last two seasons.
Last season, Vinicius was involved in more goals (23 of his own and 21 assists) than Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema (31 goals and seven assists), highlighting his importance to the cause at the Santiago Bernabeu. This accomplishment has resulted in an iconic squad number.
Following the departure of Eden Hazard, the Brazil international is Real Madrid’s new No.7, allowing him to follow in the footsteps of legendary characters such as Ronaldo, Raul, and Emilio Butragueno. According to The Athletic, Vinicius requested the shirt from club president Florentino Perez. Real saw the Samba star as their next marketing dream, and enthusiastically fulfilled their request.
Vinicius has looked lively in pre-season, despite missing a penalty in a Clasico clash with arch-rivals Barcelona at one point, and will be hoping to be joined in Madrid by World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe at some point in the near future – with the Frenchman making a push for the exits at PSG.
