Five years have passed since Vini traded Flamengo for Real Madrid. In that half-decade, the young left winger has changed the sport on both sides of the Atlantic and around the world. His impact in Europe is undeniable. With 59 goals and 64 assists in 225 matches, Vinícius has established himself as one of the most potent attacking forces in football, combining blistering speed with intelligent changes of pace and an increasingly refined final product, both in crosses and finishes. He is every La Liga defender’s nightmare; few can effectively contain him.

He has charmed everyone with his youthful style, radiant smile, immense talent, and irreverent dance. Giving up is not a word in his dictionary. No matter how tough the game, he keeps pushing until he succeeds, and he often does. His resilience matches his quality on the field. Real Madrid’s game often revolves around him, and he usually delivers. His partnership with Karim Benzema will be remembered by any Madridista for years to come. The truth is that Vini has stolen our hearts.

This is all the more remarkable considering the issue of racism he has endured in Spain. For years, he has faced attacks, insults, and prejudice stretching back to his time at Flamengo in Brazil. There have been countless episodes, yet it feels almost wrong to give these reactionary individuals too much attention. Vini is far bigger than all of them combined. #BailaVini

Image courtesy of @vinijr