OPINION: Vinicius Junior has everything to be the greatest Brazilian since Ronaldo
A performance like Vini Jr's in Real Madrid's thrashing of Liverpool at Anfield can tempt us into exaggeration. And comparisons are always tricky, even more so with players who are still playing and legends of the sport. But to turn a blind eye to Vinicius' talent and achievements is to underestimate the potential of someone who is already among the best in the world and dazzles whenever he has the ball at his feet.
For those reading the title, three names should come to mind when questioning the statement: what about Ronaldinho? What about Kaká? And Neymar?
It is clear that Vinícius Júnior has not yet surpassed any of these names. Ronaldinho and Kaká have also shone for giant clubs in Europe's elite and even won the World Player of the Year award. Still, the level that Vini Jr. has reached at just 22 years of age and the evidence that he is constantly improving suggests that his longevity at the highest level of football will be far greater.
With Neymar, the comparison is different. Even if the analysis is of a player who is 10 years Vinicius' senior, the current Brazil and Paris Saint-Germain No.10 is perhaps ahead in quality. Neymar had the responsibility of being the Seleção's most influential player at a World Cup and was one of the protagonists of a historic attacking trio with Messi and Suarez at Barcelona.
Mental strength
A combination of career misjudgements, injuries at key moments and off-field factors, however, have prevented Neymar from achieving all that seemed a mere matter of time. And I disagree with those who think he is uncommitted or has little focus, but Vini Jr. seems to be a few notches above in mental preparation - and that may have to do with the people around him.
That strength in times of adversity makes Vinícius Júnior a rare gem. From a very early age, the Brazilian has learned to live with criticism and admit his weaknesses rather than treat them with disdain or attack those who have judged him.
At the start of Vini's Real Madrid career, for example, much was said about his poor finishing and low goalscoring record. He recognised that he needed to improve. He progressed and today he shares the top scorer spot in the team with Karim Benzema. At the time, he was modest about comparing himself to England's Raheem Sterling, who suffered the same criticism and went on to become a better goalscorer.
Vinicius Junior has also been subjected to frequent racial abuse in Spain and has faced a hostile environment in LaLiga stadiums on a weekly basis. The Brazilian does not fail to take a firm stance on the issue and demands forceful measures from the authorities. On the pitch, he continues to put on a show.
It is this union of technical excellence and mental strength that makes Vini Jr's future so thrilling. This debate could be over by 2026.