Real Madrid banking big on key forward to get them through vs Manchester City | OneFootball

Real Madrid are set to take on Manchester City tomorrow, in what will serve as the first of the two-legged Round of 16 clash in the UEFA Champions League.

This will be an important match for a Real Madrid side already out of the Copa Del Rey and with a four-point deficit to Barcelona at the top of the league table.

Not to mention, the club are dealing with multiple injuries, with Kylian Mbappe notably recovering from a knock, whereas Rodrygo could miss the entire year with a long-term injury.

Real Madrid are banking on Vinicus Jr.

The unprecedented injury crisis, particularly involving Mbappe, means that Real Madrid are banking heavily on Vinicius Jr, heading into this clash against Manchester City.

This is according to AS, which suggests the Brazilian international will be Real Madrid’s main man as they take on the Premier League giants.

Vinicius Jr. will be a vital cog in the Real Madrid frontline. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Having largely become a shadow of Mbappe, Vinicius is not having the best of seasons at Real Madrid this term. However, he has still been involved in 24 goals in all competitions.

However, the Brazilian’s recent form has been encouraging, with the player notably being involved in six goals in the last four Champions League matches.

As far as Vinicius’ overall record against Manchester City is concerned, he has faced them ten times, out of which he has only won four times while drawing two.

The Brazilian has netted only two goals against Pep Guardiola’s men but has added five assists to his name in those ten matches.

As far as Real Madrid’s camp is concerned, the club have full faith in Vini Jr. and believe that the attacker has to show up, especially if Los Blancos are to harbour any hopes of securing an advantage in the first leg.