UEFA Champions League 2019/2020: Ranking the top 7 teenagers in the group stage

Club Atletico de Madrid v Borussia Dortmund - UEFA Champions League Group A
Club Atletico de Madrid v Borussia Dortmund - UEFA Champions League Group A

#4 Vinicius Jr - 19 years (Real Madrid)

Real Madrid CF v Levante UD - La Liga
Real Madrid CF v Levante UD - La Liga

Vinicius Jr. signed a contract with Real Madrid just 10 days after making his professional debut with Flamengo in the Brazilian Serie A in 2017, but saw his transfer to the Bernabeu delayed as he had not attained the age allowed for international transfers.

Upon turning 18 in July 2018, the Brazilian joined with his Real Madrid teammates, but had a tough start to life in the Spanish capital, as former manager Julen Lopetegui did not trust his abilities, and refused to field him, demoting him to play for the reserves at one point.

Lopetegui's replacement with Santiago Solari saw an improvement in fortunes for Vinicius, as he got more gametime and was one of very few players who performed creditably in what was a shambolic campaign for Real Madrid.

The 19-year-old has faced criticism for his poor final balls and lack of composure while finishing, but he draws plenty of plaudits for his willingness to take on defenders and direct style of play.

Though he is yet to open his goals account this season, he had an assist in the 3-2 win over Levante and finally made his international debut when he came on for Richarlison in the 1-0 friendly defeat to Peru.

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Edited by Kingshuk Kusari
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