Mane has lavished praise on Vinicius, with whom he sparred on Tuesday (June 20) while both men were on foreign service. Brazil lost to Senegal 4-2 in a friendly match. The 22-year-old was praised by the Bayern attacker, who said to TNT Sports (via Madrid Xtra):
“For me Vinícius Jr is top 3 in the world right now. I think he will keep this level, and, of course, win the Ballon d’Or.”
Vinicius recently completed an outstanding campaign with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. In 55 appearances across various tournaments, the Brazilian forward recorded 23 goals and 21 assists.
After Karim Benzema left, the Madrid winger, who has emerged as the star of the La Liga giants, will be compelled to continue in that role. Throughout the season, his fast feet, agility, and goal-scoring ability have caused havoc for opposing defenders.
From the Brazilian team Flamengo, Vinicius joined Real Madrid in 2018. He won the Champions League, two La Liga championships, and the Copa del Rey. He is expecting to compete for the Ballon d’Or in October.
One for the future: Vinicius
The Manchester City combo of Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne, though, present the Brazilian with stiff challenge.
Vinicius commented about perhaps winning the Ballon d’Or . And his former Real Madrid teammate Benzema was projected to win the award. The Frenchman earned the title last year following a fantastic 2021-22 season.
The Brazilian stressed that the honour must come naturally and that time is on his side in this regard (via Eurosport):
