Real Madrid's lack of offensive production outside of Karim Benzema has been the narrative of the last few LaLiga seasons. After Cristiano Ronaldo left Real Madrid at the end of the 2017/18 season, Benzema's form skyrocketed.
Despite this, Madrid suffered mightily in the 2018/19 season, finishing third in the league and losing in the Champions League round of 16 to Ajax. During that unusual lockout year, Madrid was able to win the league while falling in the Round of 16 of the Champions League to Manchester City once more. Madrid also lost the league to Atletico Madrid last season, as well as the Champions League semifinals. Despite some accomplishments, the past has not been kind.Sergio Ramos was Madrid's second-highest scorer behind Benzema during those seasons. This is a result of the other forwards' lack of output outside of Benzema. Florentino Perez attempted to remedy this issue by investing heavily in Eden Hazard and Luka Jovic. However, since signing, those two have been virtually non-existent.
In general, the attack has lacked pace and dynamism in recent seasons. Outside of Benzema, Gareth Bale was old and injured most of the time, Marco Asensio had a major injury and had lost some of his speed, and there wasn't much to be thrilled about (or frightened about, if you were an opposing defense). The attack problem persisted heading into this season.Ancelotti used a front three of Hazard, Benzema, and Bale in the first La Liga match of the season. On paper, this appeared to be Madrid's strongest front three. However, this seasoned trio got off to a slow start. They lacked dynamism and pace, and they weren't very thrilling or dangerous to opposing defenses.
Vinicius Jr. made his league debut as a substitute and scored against Alaves, and he hasn't looked back since. The winger has stormed into the scene, and his performance is expected to earn him a contract extension at the conclusion of the season. His pace, ball-handling ability, and general dynamic style has provided Madrid with something they have lacked in recent seasons: attacking vitality.With 14 goals and 12 assists in the league so far, he has clearly overcome his difficulties. Vinicius has consistently been one of Europe's most productive forwards. Vinicius' connection with Karim Benzema has helped boost Benzema to the current Ballon D'Or favorite, in addition to being the 5th best scorer in all of La Liga.In the post-Ronaldo era, Benzema has put up remarkable numbers. In 2018/19, 2019/20, and 2020/21, he scored 21, 21, and 23 goals, respectively. With a few games left in the season, Benzema has already set a career record with 26 league goals. For his historic season, Benzema has gotten a lot of well-deserved accolades, and many believe he has lifted Real Madrid to the La Liga title. However, Vinicius' contribution to his development should not be underestimated.
Benzema and Vinicius always seem to be on the same page. They pass the ball back and forth, play 1-2s, exchange positions, and combine to score in almost every Madrid victory this season. Vinicius is deserving of a lot of credit.
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