Vinicius Junior aiming to emulate Ronaldo at Real Madrid

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 26 June 2018

Vinicius Junior 'dreams' of replicating the success of Ronaldo and Ronaldinho in Spanish football when he officially links up with new side Real Madrid.

Incoming Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior has said that he will aim to emulate Ronaldo and Ronaldinho when he begins his new adventure in Spain.

The 17-year-old is due to arrive at the Bernabeu this summer, a year after being signed by the European champions in a £38m transfer.

Vinicius has scored 11 goals in 51 league appearances for Flamengo since making his debut 13 months ago, leading to interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona.

Having decided on a move to the Spanish capital, though, the Brazil Under-20s international is now intent on becoming a Madrid great.

"I'm saying goodbye to the club that I love very much," he said in an emotional tribute to boyhood club Flamengo. "I'm going after more dreams in my life. All people who love me are always by my side. I managed to realise my dream here in Flamengo.

"To end happy with the fans screaming my name, in the crowded Maracana, I leave here honoured and happy. I am saying goodbye to the club that did everything for me to fulfil my dream of playing for Real Madrid.

"I am dreaming of doing the same as Ronaldo and Ronaldinho in Spain. The biggest challenge will be tactical but I can improve and turn into a great player."

Vinicius has been involved with the Flamengo setup since the age 10, earning his big break in the senior fold in May 2017.