Real Madrid superstar looking to spoil Barcelona’s party heading into El Clasico | OneFootball

At a time when Kylian Mbappe has been absent and has faced immense criticism, Vinicius Jr. has emerged as a knight in shining armour for Real Madrid.

In this calendar year, Vinicius has objectively performed better than Mbappe and has emerged as the club’s top performer. Quite naturally, therefore, the team will rely on him as they take on Barcelona in El Clasico this Sunday.

Vinicius looking to spoil the party

According to Mundo Deportivo, Vinicius arrives at the Camp Nou in the best form of his season. He is now highly motivated and determined to prevent Barcelona from celebrating the title on their own turf.

His two goals against Espanyol last Sunday lifted his spirits significantly after a season that has been an emotional rollercoaster.

The Bernabeu crowd has booed him more than they have cheered him this campaign, but his recent performances have quietened the critics considerably.

Vinicius has been consistent for Real Madrid this year. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

In the last three league matches alone, Vinicius has scored four goals, contributing to five valuable points for Real Madrid.

Those strikes have already denied Barcelona the title on two occasions, and he will be looking to do the same on Sunday.

The numbers backing up his form are equally impressive. He has scored 21 goals this season across all competitions, including 15 in La Liga, and has now scored over 20 goals in five consecutive seasons. He is just two shy of matching his best-ever La Liga tally of 17 goals.

Beyond the numbers, the report highlights Vinicius’ commitment to the club at a time when Mbappe’s dedication has been openly questioned.

A strong performance against Barcelona may also go a long way in helping him speed up the negotiations over his new contract at the Bernabeu.