Karim Benzema backs Vinicius Junior amid Real Madrid pressure and Yan Diomande challenge

Karim Benzema has publicly reaffirmed his support for Vinicius Junior as the Real Madrid forward faces criticism over a run of disappointing performances and increasing comparisons with emerging youngster Yan Diomande.

The former Real Madrid striker posted a photograph of himself with his former team-mate on Instagram, adding a brief but emphatic message: “Number one, forever.”

Vinicius, 26, was unable to silence his critics in Real Madrid’s Champions League match against AEK Athens, with scrutiny of the Brazilian continuing to grow. Diomande’s emergence has further increased the competition for a starting place.

Benzema’s intervention carries particular weight because of the close relationship the two forwards developed during their time together in Madrid. Vinicius joined Real Madrid from Flamengo aged 18, and Benzema regularly took a mentoring role with the young Brazilian.

The Frenchman helped Vinicius improve his decision-making and become more effective in front of goal. His guidance was not always gentle, however, and Benzema made clear that he could be demanding because he believed his team-mate had more to offer.

“I believe in Vinicius. I talk to him a lot. Sometimes I can be a little hard on him, but that is because I know he can do even better,” Benzema said in 2021.

He also described Vinicius as a “phenomenon if he wants to be”.

The latest message comes as Vinicius prepares to miss Real Madrid’s trip to Valencia on Saturday evening through suspension. Diomande will be involved for the visit, adding another point of focus to the competition between the two players.

The following day, the opponents of Atletico Madrid and FC Barcelona will meet.