Vinicius Jr nears historic Champions League milestone against Manchester City

Vinicius Jr is set to lead the line for Real Madrid in the second leg of their 2025/26 UEFA Champions League Round of 16 tie against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

Despite Los Blancos taking a strong 3-0 advantage from the first leg, the Brazilian winger is expected to stay on the front foot and continue hunting for goals.

Beyond the result, Vinicius Jr is on the verge of a significant personal milestone in Europe’s top competition. He is poised to become the youngest player in Champions League history to reach 80 appearances, doing so at 25 years and 248 days. That would see him surpass teammate Kylian Mbappe, who previously set the record by hitting the 80-game mark at 26 years and 33 days.

This season alone, Vinicius has already featured 11 times in the Champions League, contributing three goals and five assists as Madrid chase yet another title. With his pace, skill and improving end product, he remains one of the main threats in Carlo Ancelotti’s attack and a key figure on another big European night.
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