Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid - 5 players to watch out for in the Madrid derby | La Liga 2021-22

#3 Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid)

Vinicius is breathing fire at the moment.

It's been a season of revelation for Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior, who's finally produced the form that was always expected of him. It's been a long wait, but he'd even agree that it's better late than never.

The Brazilian has struck 12 goals and made seven assists across competitions from 22 games this season. That includes ten goals in La Liga, the most in the division after only Karim Benzema (12).

Buzzing with energy, confidence and class, Vinicius has truly come of age for Los Blancos this season. He has become one of their best and most key players. Atletico will have their hands full going up against him.

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#2 Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid)

Griezmann is putting his nightmare start behind him.

It wasn't the most ceremonious return to Madrid for Atletico's prodigal son. Antoine Griezmann rejoined the club following two difficult seasons with Barcelona, where he struggled to replicate his best form.

However, lately, he has started to find his feet, contributing five goals in their last six league games. Griezmann has also registered four goals and one assist in the Champions League.

Griezmann is no stranger to Madrid derbies, having tormented Real Madrid in the past. In fact, six of his eight goals against the team have come in this fixture, while also making four assists.

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#1 Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)

Benzema has been unstoppable this season.

Karim Benzema has been the best La Liga player of the season thus far, and it's without question or doubt. The Real Madrid No.9 has been in a league of his own with 12 goals (the most in the league) and seven assists (the joint-most in the league).

His consistency is remarkable, while his rich vein of form has re-established him among the best strikers. Benzema, in fact, achieved his highest finish in the Ballon d'Or (fourth) this year.

The Frenchman is also a Madrid derby veteran. Since 2009, he has played in the fixture 36 times, winning on 16 occasions, and contributing ten goals (scored six and assisted four) against Atletico Madrid.