“He is better than Messi” - Pundit highlights why Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. is a better player than Lionel Messi
Pundits Jose Luis Sanchez and Edu Aguirre recently claimed Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. is a better footballer than Lionel Messi. The Brazilian is widely considered to be one of the best talents of this generation and is reportedly set to win his first Ballon d'Or later this month.
Speaking via El Chiringuito TV, Sanchez and Aguirre shared their opinion on Vinicius Jr. and Messi, comparing their playing style and abilities. The quotes (via All About Argentina) read:
"Vinicius is better than Messi, and that’s the reality. In my opinion, they are comparable players, but they differ in dribbling. Vinicius relies more on speed, explosiveness. Vinicius does it along the line, on the wing, right in front of defenders, to escape from areas where there is practically no space."
They added:
"In open space, Messi might have been cleaner with his dribbling, but Vinicius is more electric and has more escape routes in those areas."
Vinicius Jr. moved to Real Madrid from Brazilian side Flamengo in 2018 and quickly rose to prominence in their senior team. In 275 appearances for Los Blancos, the Brazilian has found the net 86 times and set up 82 goals. He is frequently compared to legends of the game at an early age for his exceptional dribbling skills, speed, and flair with the ball.
It's worth noting that while Vinicius is an out-and-out winger, Lionel Messi is an amalgamation of a winger and an attacking midfielder, making him a more versatile player. At Vinicius's age (24), Messi had already won three Ballons d'Or. However, the Brazilian could be reaching similar standards soon with him being a major favorite to win his first Ballon d'Or this year.
When Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr picked Lionel Messi over Cristiano Ronaldo
In a 2017 interview with El Chiringuito TV ahead of his move to Real Madrid, Vinicius was asked the age-old question of choosing between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. The youngster did not hesitate to pick Messi as his favorite over Ronaldo.
Interviewer: Who is better, Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo?
Vinicius: Messi, Messi.
When asked to name his idol in football, the Real Madrid forward also named another Blaugrana legend and his compatriot Neymar Jr as his inspiration.
"Neymar. I admire him a lot. I am always watching his videos and trying to do the things he does and a little better," Vinicius said.
Neymar has also heaped praises on his national teammate multiple times, as he recently backed him to win the Ballon d'Or this year.