Real Madrid legend Jorge Valdano has lauded Vinícius Júnior, describing the Brazilian forward as the foremost creative talent in global football.
Vinícius, who has ancestral roots in the Tikar tribe of Cameroon, has demonstrated exceptional form this season.
He has made 42 appearances across all competitions, scoring 18 goals and providing 12 assists.
Addressing critiques of the 24-year-old’s performances, Valdano expressed his perspective in an interview with AS.
“Criticism is never a model of fairness in football. He’s an extraordinary creator of danger. Perhaps the greatest in the world. Because he assists or scores.
“Or because he creates the feeling that anything can happen at any moment. And, furthermore, he’s an extraordinary example of overcoming obstacles.
“The transformation he’s undergone since arriving at Madrid until today is something rarely seen in history.
“In football, you can learn many things, but learning how to score goals is one of the most difficult. And Vinicius achieved it.
“He has another great virtue: surprising muscular quality. In extra time, in the 118th minute, he makes a 40-meter run that leaves a trail in his wake. He’s a marvel. A titan.”
