Brazil international of Cameroonian descent Vinicius Junior has opened up on his future after clinching the FIFA Best Men’s Player of the Year award.
The pacey winger beats off competition from teammate Jude Bellingham and Manchester City’s Rodri to win the top award at the FIFA Award Gala on Tuesday in Doha, Qatar.
After winning the award, Vinicius reiterated desire to feature for Real Madrid for a longer period, ending speculation of a possible transfer to Saudi Arabia.
The winger reportedly turned down offers from Saudi Arabia, while his recent Ballon d’Or snub was also said to have contributed to a desire to leave Europe in the near future.
However, while accepting his latest individual accolade, Vinicius insisted he has no plans to walk away from Madrid.
“It seemed impossible to get here when I was little,” Vinicius began. “Seeing poverty and crime as a child and being able to get here is very important to me. I want to thank everyone for the award.
“I want to continue playing for Real Madrid for a long time, as well as thanking Flamengo, which is where I started.”
There was talk of a €500m bid for Vinicius during the summer transfer window, although sources close to the situation have always played down the rumours of such an offer.
