Vinicius Junior Reveals the Manager Who Changed His Career Forever
Vinícius Júnior has identified former Real Madrid head coach and current Brazil national team manager Carlo Ancelotti as the finest tactician he has collaborated with throughout his career.
Ancelotti's comeback to Madrid in 2021 initiated their professional partnership, with Vinícius delivering his most impressive performances under the renowned Italian strategist. The winger featured in 198 fixtures under Ancelotti's leadership in the Spanish capital, netting 90 times and providing 68 assists, though he notably lost out to Rodri despite being heavily favored for the 2024 Ballon d'Or award.
Ancelotti left Madrid following the conclusion of last season, yet the 66-year-old continues to mentor Vinícius after accepting the Brazil managerial role. The 25-year-old has appeared in only three matches under his former club manager thus far, but is expected to play a pivotal role in Ancelotti's future strategies.
Vinícius has certainly enhanced his standing with Ancelotti through comments made during an interview following Brazil's recent commanding 5–0 triumph over South Korea in a friendly encounter, offering glowing praise for the former Chelsea and AC Milan tactician.
Vinicius Jr: Ancelotti Gives Me Confidence to Perform
"This provides us all with tremendous confidence. Every attacking player found the net and created assists, which boosts our belief ahead of the World Cup," stated the Brazilian sensation. "We have preparation matches, so we must get ready as quickly as possible. Time is running short. We have a fresh manager and we've been securing victories under his guidance. We must maintain this momentum.
"He has consistently been the finest coach I've worked alongside. He was the manager who instilled the greatest confidence in me, the one under whom I performed at my peak. He joined the national setup, and I've already featured in three games. The development I've achieved with him and the squad is clear to see. We aim to continue this trajectory to deliver an outstanding World Cup campaign."
Brazil experienced difficulties under former manager Dorival Júnior and Ancelotti has been entrusted with restoring them to prominence. The five-time world champions have already secured qualification for next summer's World Cup in North America and are certain to field one of the tournament's most formidable lineups.
Vinícius, who recorded a goal and assist against South Korea, will aspire to claim the title from bitter rivals Argentina in the process—he has another chance to impress Ancelotti on Tuesday when the Seleção meets Japan in a friendly fixture.