By Sulaimon Jamiu
Real Madrid star, Vinicius Junior has been named the UEFA Champions League 2021/22 Young Player of the Season after a couple of magical perfomances and individual brilliance for the Los Blancos this term, bagging six assists and four goals, including the winning goal in the final.
The 21-year-old Brazil winger had a wonderful run in this season’s UCL, and also netted the winner against Liverpool in the Stade de France final, converting Federico Valverde’s powerful cross at the far post in the 59th minute.
The winger made 13 appearances, scored 4 goals, provided 6 assists and covered a distance of 10.24km in the competition. His number of assists is only bettered by Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United who had 7 to his name.
Many of those assists were set up goals for Frenchman, Karim Benzema, who eventually emerged as the 2021/22 UCL player of the season; as the duo forged a formidable partnership.
While Madrid hitman, Benzema provided power and predatory instincts, Vinícius Júnior shone with his pace, quick feet and creative flair, which is best highlighted by his individual effort in a solo goal in the 5-0 group stage win versus Shakhtar Donetsk.
