Vinícius Júnior disappoints against Arsenal in another poor night for Real Madrid | OneFootball

There's no doubt that Brazilian Vinícius Júnior was instrumental in Vinícius Júnior struggles to replicate last season's impact, as Real Madrid adapt to Mbappé’s rise and shifting roles in attack.winning the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 with decisive goals and excellent performances throughout the tournament, as well as being very important in winning LaLiga. However, the striker is definitely not making the same impact when needed this season.

The indication of Vinícius Júnior's negative phase had already become clear last weekend, when the Brazilian missed his penalty against Valencia in LaLiga and heard a few for the first time at the Santiago Bernabéu when substituted. That fact seemed to have created a desire in Vini Jr to try and solve the game against Arsenal through individuality.

Vinícius Júnior went unnoticed at the Emirates Stadium and didn't manage a single shot on target that really threatened the opposition goalkeeper. In addition, the Brazilian striker missed easy passes in attack and had considerable positional problems. Even so, Carlo Ancelotti opted to keep him on for the entire match.

Has Mbappe's arrival hindered Vinícius Júnior?

Arsenal FC v Real Madrid C.F. - UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Quarter Final First Leg | Justin Setterfield/GettyImages

The arrival of Kylian Mbappe was positive for Real Madrid in the long term, as the Frenchman became more closely associated with Jude Bellingham in the team game and began to collaborate even more in the second half of the season thanks to his individual ability. The former PSG player's start was very difficult, but the striker managed to adapt very well to Carlo Ancelotti's tactical formation.

However, the disappointing performance gives the impression that Vinícius Júnior has lost the same freedom he had on the pitch last season, being very limited to speedy runs down the left flank. Vini Jr. continues to contribute to Real Madrid in the majority of matches in the 2024/25 season, but the level of his performances is certainly lacking. It's worth remembering that Endrick has been on the bench in practically every game this season.