Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior is aiming to conclude October with his first-ever Ballon d’Or in Paris, but his month kicks off in France with a Champions League clash against Lille on Wednesday. With star signing Kylian Mbappé sidelined due to a thigh injury, Vinicius has stepped up as Madrid’s primary attacking force. The reigning European champions remain unbeaten in 14 matches in the competition, and after securing a hard-fought win over Stuttgart on matchday one, they look to continue their success at Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
Last season, Vinicius had a slow start but found his form in the second half, playing a crucial role in helping Madrid secure their 15th European Cup title. Although he and Mbappé initially struggled to find their rhythm together this season, they were developing a promising partnership before Mbappé’s injury.
Despite being named in Madrid’s squad for the Lille match, Mbappé is not expected to start and may not play at all, with his return anticipated after the international break. Coach Carlo Ancelotti, backing Vinicius for the Ballon d’Or, said, “He deserves it for his performances last year, especially his impact in the Champions League. But if he doesn’t win, it’s no big deal, he’ll keep going.”
Mbappé’s arrival at Madrid raised questions about his compatibility with Vinicius, as both prefer playing from the left. So far, Ancelotti has kept Vinicius in his preferred role, with Mbappé often positioned centrally. Despite some early criticism, Vinicius has responded well on the pitch, contributing key goals and assists.
Recently, Vinicius has shown strong form, scoring off the bench in Madrid’s 4-1 win over Espanyol in La Liga, and providing assists in victories over Alaves and Atletico Madrid. Against Atletico, Vinicius assisted Éder Militão’s opener in a 1-1 draw, helping Madrid close the gap with league leaders Barcelona.
While Ancelotti may use a 4-3-3 system against Lille, with young Brazilian Endrick pushing for a start, Mbappé’s 17-year-old brother Ethan, who joined Lille this summer from PSG, will miss the match due to injury.
