Ancelotti: Vinicius makes the difference despite not at his best
Ancelotti affirms Vinicius's ability to make a difference despite his dip in form, while the Brazilian Football Confederation announces Raphinha's injury.
Translated by Qiyas from الراي — Original source
Capital – Agencies: Brazilian national team coach Carlo Ancelotti has affirmed that Vinicius Junior remains capable of deciding matches and making a difference, even during periods when he is not at his best, adding that the Real Madrid forward will gradually regain his shine as the season progresses.
Vinicius has scored only one goal in eight matches played for Real Madrid across all competitions this season.
Nevertheless, the 26-year-old player showcased his potential during Brazil’s 4-2 friendly victory over Australia in Brisbane, contributing to the third goal before completing his national team’s tally by scoring the fourth from a penalty kick.
Ancelotti, who previously managed Vinicius at Real Madrid, said: “I know (Vini) well. In my view, he is a key player for the Brazilian national team and will remain so in the future, just as he was an important figure in my coaching career.”
He added: “Is he currently in his best form? No, but we are still at the beginning of the season. Vini always possesses this ability; even when he is not at his peak, he remains capable of making a difference.”
Meanwhile, the Brazilian Football Confederation announced yesterday that Barcelona star Raphinha will miss Brazil’s friendly match against host India this Saturday due to injury.
Raphinha scored a penalty in Brazil’s second friendly against Australia but was substituted at halftime after complaining of discomfort in his right thigh, with Endrick replacing him.
Following medical tests that confirmed the injury, the Brazilian Football Confederation stated in a press release that “as a precautionary measure and to facilitate his recovery, the medical staff has decided to exclude him from the national team.”
