THUNDERBALL BEFORE KICK-OFF! Vinicius sows astonishment at the Bernabéu a few hours before the opening match of the new season, Xabi Alonso and his teammates stunned by the unthinkable decision of the star number 7…

Vinicius Junior has arrived at the start of the 2025/26 season with a renewed sense of purpose, determined to make a mark both at Real Madrid and on the international stage ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States. The Brazilian star, now 25, is already a household name at the Bernabéu, celebrated for his dazzling skills and decisive contributions in recent campaigns.

Over 322 appearances and 104 goals for Real Madrid, Vinicius has cemented his status as one of the club’s key figures. His performances in the last two Champions League triumphs were pivotal, with moments of brilliance that left fans and rivals alike in awe. Even with just four days of preseason training at Valdebebas, he reportedly stunned the club’s coaching staff and teammates with his exceptional physical condition and laser-focused mindset. A source within the club remarked, “He looks very determined,” highlighting his meticulous preparation for the season ahead.

The upcoming campaign carries significant weight for Vinicius beyond his on-field ambitions. His contract negotiations, which have been stalled since February over salary disagreements, remain unresolved. Though his current deal runs until 2027, both the club and the player understand that a new agreement would provide security and stability for the star forward, ensuring his focus remains undivided on delivering top performances.

Physically and mentally, Vinicius has entered the new season at peak condition. Compared to previous years, his endurance, agility, and tactical awareness have all shown notable improvement. Teammates, including Xabi Alonso, reportedly expressed surprise at his level of fitness and his unrelenting drive to dominate from the first whistle. Observers are noting that this could mark one of Vinicius’s most consistent and impactful seasons yet.

Aside from club ambitions, Vinicius is acutely aware of the looming 2026 World Cup. With Brazil’s national team coach Carlo Ancelotti at the helm, he sees this tournament as a stage to further assert his position internationally. Beyond footballing glory, Vinicius’s agency has been actively expanding his brand in the American market, making a standout World Cup performance not just a sporting priority but a strategic career move.

Statistical evidence underscores Vinicius’s sustained influence over the past few seasons. He scored 22 goals and provided 16 assists last season, following 24 goals and 9 assists in 2023/24, the year he earned The Best award. His 2022/23 campaign saw 23 goals and 19 assists, while 2021/22 included 22 goals and 16 assists. These numbers reflect a rare combination of consistency, creativity, and clutch performance at the highest level.

Motivated by dual objectives—defending Real Madrid’s dominance and excelling on the international stage—Vinicius approaches the season with the mindset of a warrior. Every sprint, every dribble, and every shot is calculated to maximize impact, turning pressure into opportunity and expectation into results.

Off the pitch, Vinicius’s presence has been equally commanding. He has reportedly been involved in mentoring younger players at the club, sharing insights from his experiences in high-stakes matches and fostering a competitive yet supportive environment. This leadership role further solidifies his integral position within Real Madrid’s squad dynamics.

The opening hours of the season have already hinted at Vinicius’s intentions. Rumors of an unexpected decision regarding his role in the squad have left Xabi Alonso and teammates stunned, suggesting that the number 7 is determined to seize control of the narrative and set the tone for the months ahead.

Fans and analysts alike are watching closely, anticipating moments of magic from a player capable of turning a single play into a game-changing event. With a perfect blend of speed, technique, and tactical intelligence, Vinicius is positioned to make this season one of his most defining yet.

As Real Madrid prepares to kick off the new campaign, all eyes are on Vinicius Junior. His drive, ambition, and unyielding commitment to excellence promise a season filled with excitement, surprises, and unforgettable performances that could shape the legacy of both the player and the club