Real Madrid’s Vincius Junior was named the UEFA Champions League Young Player of the Season for the 2021/22 season by UEFA’s Technical Observer panel on Tuesday.
After six assists and four goals this season, including Real Madrid’s winner in the final against Liverpool, Vinicius caught the attention of UEFA’s Technical Observer panel.
In the 59th minute, the 21-year-old capped a breakout season by scoring the game’s only goal against Liverpool in the Stade de France final, burying Federico Valverde’s cross-shot at the far post.
It was his fourth goal in the Champions League, and he also had six assists, second only to Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes.
As the duo forged an effective partnership, the majority of those assists set up goals for UEFA Champions League Player of the Season Karim Benzema in 2021/22.
While Benzema provided power and predatory instincts, Vincius shone with his pace, quick feet, and creative flair, which was best exemplified by his sensational solo goal against Shakhtar Donetsk in the 5-0 group stage win.