Record-breaker, but still no Ballon d'Or

Despite his accolades and rising profile, Vinícius is still waiting for his moment of personal glory. In October 2024, he was snubbed for the Ballon d'Or, which went to Rodri, sparking controversy and disappointment among fans and pundits who believed Vinícius had done enough to earn it.

Since that moment, the Brazilian’s performances have dipped slightly, reflecting a broader inconsistency within the squad. Nonetheless, he remains a key figure in Carlo Ancelotti’s lineup, and with crucial matches like the Copa del Rey final and the Club World Cup still to come, there's an opportunity to finish the season strong.

With 105 goals, a growing list of titles, and an increasingly pivotal role in the team, Vinícius Júnior has already etched his name into Real Madrid folklore.