Ancelotti Confirms Vinicius Junior as Real Madrid’s Penalty Taker
Carlo Ancelotti has settled the debate on who will be Real Madrid’s primary penalty taker this season, providing clarity amidst the intense competition between star forwards Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
As Real Madrid gears up for their La Liga clash against Real Betis, Ancelotti revealed that while both players have the quality and confidence to take penalties, the responsibility will ultimately lie with Vinicius Junior.
Ancelotti’s decision comes after observing both players’ performances in recent matches. Vinicius, who has been flawless from the spot for Real Madrid, boasts an impressive record, having scored five consecutive penalties without a miss since 2018.
On the other hand, Mbappe, despite his stellar reputation, has had a less consistent run, missing two of his last four attempts during his time at Paris Saint-Germain.
The Italian coach emphasized the trust he places in both forwards but hinted that Vinicius’s calmness under pressure has earned him the nod for now.
“Vinicius has shown great composure and accuracy. It’s important to give this responsibility to someone who’s proven themselves,” Ancelotti stated, acknowledging the Brazilian’s penalty prowess.
This decision also speaks to Ancelotti’s strategy of balancing the egos and ambitions within his squad. With a team packed with talent, maintaining harmony is crucial.
By backing Vinicius, Ancelotti aims to establish a clear hierarchy, ensuring that the young Brazilian’s confidence continues to grow while Mbappe focuses on other aspects of his game.
As Real Madrid continues its campaign, the focus will not just be on who leads the attack, but also on who steps up when the pressure is highest.
For now, that responsibility rests firmly on the shoulders of Vinicius Junior, with Ancelotti’s full backing.
This decision could prove pivotal as Real Madrid looks to reclaim domestic and European glory, relying on Vinicius to deliver from the spot when it matters most.
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