Vinicius Junior

Vinícius Júnior is Brazil's most prominent current attacking talent — a left winger for Real Madrid known for his pace, dribbling, and decisive performances in UEFA Champions League finals. He is also a leading global advocate against racism in football.

Vinícius came through the Flamengo academy and joined Real Madrid in 2018 for a reported €46 million. After a period of development, he broke through in 2021–22 alongside Karim Benzema, scoring the winning goal in the Champions League final against Liverpool and helping Madrid to a league and European double.

He followed that with another Champions League winner's medal in 2023–24, again scoring in the final, and was named UEFA Champions League Player of the Season. In 2024 he won The Best FIFA Men's Player award and was Ballon d'Or runner-up. Beyond the pitch, he has been a prominent activist against racist abuse in Spain, leading FIFA's anti-racism player committee.