Sports
2023 NHL playoff preview: Avalanche vs. Kraken
By Dom Luszczyszyn, Shayna Goldman and Sean Gentille
On one hand, it’d be easy to feel harmful for the Seattle Kraken. Their reward for making a monumental jump in Year 2 of the franchise is a first-round matchup against the defending champs.
On the deal of, even if it’s paused right here, the event has been undeniable, and the future is radiant. Staunch revel in that, y’know? The Golden Knights got a small bit too grasping a small bit too early, and it feels like they’re tranquil paying the payment. That’s a selection lesson payment finding out.
Within the intervening time, the Colorado Avalanche, banged up or now no longer, are about to initiate their title defense, with the similar bones as closing 300 and sixty five days’s juggernaut. They’re being graded on a distinctive scale. That’s how it’s speculated to work. Is there any chance Seattle comes out of this with one thing more than a “jubilant to be right here” trophy?
The Odds
Here’s it, doubtlessly the most lopsided collection of the outlet round. The Avalanche are deserved heavy favorites as one in all the league’s most fascinating groups.
Within the occasion you’ve time-traveled from October that makes superb sense — it’s the defending Stanley Cup champions vs. a second-300 and sixty five days growth workforce. Nonetheless within the seven months since that will feel slightly unfair to a Kraken workforce that obtained 46 games. (Within the occasion you’re tranquil with us Mr. Time Traveller, yes, the Kraken obtained 46 games this 300 and sixty five days. No, we’re now no longer lying to you).
The Kraken were a huge shock this season and that’s segment of the reason the mannequin doesn’t give them mighty of an opportunity. Now no longer against arguably the class of the West. The mannequin doesn’t beget mighty faith of their performance being repeatable, striking mighty more inventory in Colorado’s video display file as an elite workforce.
the stats from the 2 groups this 300 and sixty five days suggests the 2 golf equipment aren’t as some distance off as these odds counsel. Nonetheless the Avalanche beget handled injuries all season that obfuscate how right they’re when wholesome. They’re now no longer fully wholesome, now no longer with out captain Gabriel Landeskog who didn’t play a single sport this 300 and sixty five days, nonetheless they’ll be as shut as they beget got been all season for Recreation 1. And that spells effort for Seattle. This collection shouldn’t be shut.
The Numbers
To the shock of no person, the Avalanche payment better offensively than their Spherical 1 opponent. At five-on-five this season, Colorado created more shots and quality prospects than the Kraken. Their offensive generation became as soon as additionally slightly more balanced, whereas the Kraken leaned in extra with their flee-based entirely entirely play. Seattle, and their depth scorers, set up targets at a elevated clip — 3.16 per 60, which led the league when when put next with Colorado’s 2.67 which most fascinating ranked 12th.
The Avalanche most fascinating undoubtedly matched expectations with their goal scoring, which is weird and wonderful for a workforce with their finishing talent. That trended within the suitable route within the second half and is one thing to factor in. The Kraken, on the deal of hand, trended within the opposite method within the second half; they didn’t beget as many targets to verbalize for what they created. That’s what tends to occur when the results don’t match the underlying play. If they were going into the playoffs with slightly more reinforcement, presumably within the trend of Andre Burakovsky, there’d be slightly more hope that they can beget to tranquil kick it up a level.
One of many weakest areas for Seattle is the energy play, which became as soon as below reasonable in shot quality and goal scoring. Colorado, to overview, became as soon as within the tip-half in both metrics. When that top unit is wholesome, it’s disturbing to leisurely down given how mighty talent is loaded on it; that’s why they performed sixth with 9.18 targets per 60.
On the deal of live of the ice, the 2 groups are rather shut in what they offer up whereas shorthanded. The inequity is between expectations and reality as a consequence of the Kraken conceded a elevated payment of targets against which falls on goaltending.
That’s similar at five-on-five, too. Seattle permits fewer shots against — the third-lowest payment within the league, to be staunch. And these two groups are neck-and-neck in anticipated targets, both ranking within the tip 10. The Kraken tranquil beget strengths nonetheless shaky goaltending to reduction it up. It’s now no longer as pronounced as closing 300 and sixty five days, nonetheless it’s tranquil now no longer an issue of certainty, either.
The Grand Question
Can Seattle’s forward depth overpower Colorado’s stars?
The first column on the Kraken’s stat sheet is proof ample that their formula for workforce-building has, to this level, long past in accordance with notion. Thirteen avid gamers performed the unprecedented season with 13 targets. Six had now no longer now no longer up to 20. At the tip were Jared McCann (40), a third-line center with Pittsburgh who, at instances, scored like a first-line winger; and Matty Beniers (24), the group’s first draft decide and — now no longer coincidentally — first try at adding undoubtedly elite talent to the fold.
As an alternative of that? Mainly only a bunch of stable hockey avid gamers. It couldn’t beget labored out better. After showing indicators of this form of thing of their inaugural season whereas getting knee-capped by their goaltenders, the Kraken went out and earned themselves a playoff space. Beniers had himself an smartly-known rookie season. Shane Wright, tranquil, became as soon as came across money at the No. 4 decide. There will be deal of opportunities to transfer stable talent on to the tip shelf. Within the intervening time, even if, the Kraken seem like they’re attempting to offer four nickels for a quarter.
Against the Avs, Seattle’s most fascinating hope would perhaps perhaps very smartly be for the backside six to paddle buck wild. Eeli Tolvanen, picked off waivers from the Predators, has the third-absolute most practical targets/60 on the workforce (1.34) and a legitimately unpleasant shot. The Predators failed for years to turn it into a offer of producing. Then, Seattle will get a reduction of him, throws him on a line with Oliver Bjorkstrand and Yanni Gourde and, wham, 16 targets in Forty eight games.
As a total, that line has some legit pop. If they’re matching up against Lars Eller, Denis Malgin and Alex Newhook, it’s smartly at some level of the realm of risk they’ll get the scoring combat. Playing Daniel Sprong on the fourth line, the place his defensive elements would perhaps perhaps smartly be mitigated by his teammates and his competition alike, is a pleasing trick, too. Getting Sprong accessible against Colorado’s fourth line and third pairing would perhaps perhaps undoubtedly consequence in one thing. Upsets are built on secondary scorers coming up immense a handful of instances over the course of a collection.
The location for Seattle, even if, is that the Avs beget some first payment depth avid gamers, too — Malgin in particular has been an environment friendly offer of targets on the backside six. Plus, there’s a total cluster of talent at the tip of Colorado’s lineup that figures to get Seattle’s marginal positive aspects within the relaxation of the matchup so a lot less relevant. This isn’t supposed as a knock on what the Kraken beget done; on the opposite, their designate of egalitarian play is a cope with to factor in. All issues notion of, even if, it’s better to beget two 100-level scorers than none.
The X-Factor
Produce the Avalanche beget ample firepower with out Gabriel Landeskog?
Within the occasion you’re in a flee: Yeah.
Within the occasion you desire to beget a small bit more: Yeah, for certain they cease. For now. Even with Landeskog formally out of the lineup, the talent Colorado boasts alongside its first line is tranquil uninteresting-right. That community alone — Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen and Evan Rodrigues — can paddle goal-for-goal with any unit within the NHL, let alone the Beniers line. Skill like that can beat anyone at any time. Elephantine cease.
Mix within the truth that McCann, immense as his season became as soon as, scored 27 of his 40 targets against non-playoff groups and that Beniers is tranquil most fascinating 20, and it’s rather easy to mediate Seattle shedding the tip-line combat decisively ample to render the relaxation of the sport irrelevant. Is that doubtless? No — nonetheless it’s tranquil a more realistic consequence than the Avs being smartly and undoubtedly outgunned. If Cale Makar weren’t now heading in the right direction to play in Recreation 1, it’d doubtlessly be a longer discussion. Unfortunately for Seattle, that isn’t the case. Anything is feasible, nonetheless now no longer all the pieces is realistic. Colorado performed with 109 elements in 82 games and had Landeskog on the bench for zero of them. They know what they’re doing right here.
The upper question would perhaps perhaps very smartly be what Colorado would cease in Spherical 2, when they’d be facing a workforce — Minnesota or Dallas — with stars at the tip to rival their have. We’re now no longer there yet, even if.
The Rosters
Offensive and Defensive Ranking explainer
Of nearly any that that you just may perhaps factor in matchup in these playoffs there may perhaps be none that has a wider discrepancy within the debate between huge title-energy and depth. The Avalanche are a machine attributable to their elite core.
That’s what makes this a huge mismatch, a divulge that the Kraken will beget a very sophisticated time fixing for. There may perhaps be merely no resolution anywhere within the lineup for what the Avalanche stars can lift to the table. MacKinnon is a 100-level scorer and a top five forward on this planet. Rantanen is a 50-goal scorer and a top five winger. Makar is a generational defenseman, the suitable within the league who is a top five defenseman at both ends of the ice. Toews is a defensive stud who ranks within the league’s top 10 among all defensemen. How cease you cease that?
Up entrance Colorado’s top line itself is a big advantage. Rodrigues has became into a serviceable plod-in player and he’s labored smartly this 300 and sixty five days being the defensive judgment of actual and unsuitable whereas MacKinnon and Rantanen paddle off. The trio performed 231 minutes collectively this 300 and sixty five days earning 59 p.c of the anticipated targets whereas scoring 64 p.c of the staunch targets.
Shutting down MacKinnon and co. entirely doesn’t seem feasible, nonetheless slowing them down will be key for the Kraken. That job will attain the total trend down to either Alex Wennberg’s line or Yanni Gourde’s line with the latter having some expertise in being a postseason shutdown center extraordinaire.
That will beget to tranquil liberate Beniers, McCann and Jordan Eberle — Seattle’s most fascinating offensive avid gamers. The location there may perhaps be that the relaxation of Colorado’s forward community is loaded with defensively stable avid gamers — in particular Colorado’s second line. J.T. Compher had an unprecedented breakout season for the Avalanche, ample to get their preseason must replace Nazem Kadri a moot level. Defensively he performed smartly ample to enter the fringes of the Selke conversation and he’s flanked by two analytics darlings who’re superb at pushing play up the ice.
Seattle does beget some good avid gamers lower down the lineup that can chip in atmosphere friendly depth scoring to steadiness the scales slightly, nonetheless the Avs additionally beget the defensive skill to counter that. Newcomer Lars Eller struggled offensively this season, nonetheless he’s tranquil got some defensive juice.
The Kraken are deep, nonetheless total they only don’t seem deep ample to paddle toe-to-toe with the defending champs. The lack of Burakovsky is additionally a immense ingredient — he provides two share elements to the chances and would paddle a lengthy formula against making this workforce be conscious slightly more ambitious. Now no longer deep ample the place winning is all that doubtless, nonetheless ample to look now no longer now no longer up to some course forward. Excellent now it looks bleak.
On the reduction-live, the variation between the 2 groups is solely as stark. But again, it begins at the tip the place Makar and Toews kind the league’s most fascinating defensive pair. In 753 minutes collectively this 300 and sixty five days, they earned 59 p.c of the anticipated targets and 62 p.c of the targets attributable to both avid gamers’ elite puck-transferring expertise.
On the deal of aspect of the aisle, Vince Dunn provides some huge title-energy of his have after an excellent breakout 300 and sixty five days. He became as soon as one in all the immense causes Seattle’s offense popped so mighty — his on-ice targets-per-60 charges were off the charts right — and he had terrific chemistry with defensive stalwart Adam Larsson. That duo became as soon as a radiant space of Seattle’s season, nonetheless they only don’t overview to Colorado’s top duo.
That will be absolute most practical for any workforce and the goal right here for Seattle will be to weather the massive title-powered storm and hope that the workforce’s depth advantages can prevail. That applies at forward and it applies the total similar on defense the place the Avalanche are a top-heavy community. Specifically with what number of offensive weapons the Kraken beget at the backside of the lineup. Colorado’s backside four is proficient, nonetheless their results at five-on-five this 300 and sixty five days underwhelmed — ample to now no longer be conscious too some distance off from the projections of Seattle’s have unremarkable backside four. Bowen Byram and Samuel Girard are stable puck-movers and beget doubtlessly the most seemingly to offer more than anticipated right here, nonetheless we’ll must look it to undoubtedly call it a discernible advantage in Colorado’s desire.
The final nail within the coffin is the goaltending matchup. Philipp Grubauer hasn’t been the similar since leaving the Avalanche and is the suitable below-reasonable goalie within the playoffs. He’s been better this 300 and sixty five days saving five targets above anticipated — appropriate in accordance with the place he became as soon as in 2021 with Colorado — nonetheless that’s now no longer moderately ample to natty away the stink of closing season. He allowed 31.5 targets above anticipated then and the ever-fresh menace of that Grubauer showing up makes him a fancy goalie to guess on. Martin Jones undoubtedly started more games this season, nonetheless he may perhaps perhaps be an superb more horrifying choice. This became as soon as his third straight season permitting over 10 targets above anticipated.
Neither choice is promising for the Kraken and that makes goaltending yet any other Avalanche advantage. Alexandar Georgiev perfectly seized the chance to vary into a rotund-fledged starter for Colorado this season saving 17 targets above anticipated with a .917 set share. The Avalanche are immense at making issues easy on their goaltending, nonetheless Georgiev became as soon as tranquil stable in his have appropriate.
Even supposing he isn’t, Colorado has ample advantages at some level of the lineup over Seattle that it will now no longer subject either formula.
The Key Matchup
Nathan MacKinnon vs. Matty Beniers
Even supposing a workforce wants to approach workforce-building in a completely different method and beget the balanced approach that the Kraken beget created this 300 and sixty five days, it helps to be headlined by some huge title energy. That’s what Beniers is to the workforce. He’s a budding huge title who is a approved for the Calder Trophy, and rightfully so. The forward made some noise when he joined the workforce tedious closing 300 and sixty five days, and followed it up with an excellent rookie season.
Nonetheless as the workforce’s main little bit of huge title energy, he’s going to be matched up with the forward at the tip of the Avalanche. That’s MacKinnon, the celeb who scored a hat trick within the final unprecedented season sport to get Colorado on this matchup. Few groups can stack up their most fascinating player to MacKinnon, he’s legitimately one in all the suitable avid gamers on this planet. There’s the skill, walk, and outright skill to steal over games and will beget to tranquil his workforce forward. If there were any questions about that, he answered them closing postseason with a sport-altering performance that ended with a Stanley Cup ring. He followed it up this unprecedented season with 4.2 elements per 60, for the fifth most fascinating scoring payment within the league.
The dream for the Kraken is that Beniers can sooner or later blossom into a player of MacKinnon’s caliber. That’s what any workforce will beget to tranquil need for their young stars. Nonetheless appropriate now, there’s a huge disparity at the tip of the lineup on this head-to-head matchup, and it will change into draining for the Kraken.
The Bottom Line
If the Kraken win a mode to pull this off, it’d be one in all the suitable tales of the past few seasons. The closing growth workforce, for certain, had an early Cinderella flee that you just in all likelihood be conscious. Followers in Seattle getting their have, even if it’s in Year 2, may perhaps perhaps be cool.
It’d additionally be legitimately surprising. The Avs, in main strategies, are tranquil the Avs, nonetheless their most fascinating transfer may perhaps perhaps be to get moderately hastily work right here and hope Minnesota vs. Dallas lasts as lengthy as that that you just may perhaps factor in.
References
How these projections performed closing season
Working out projection uncertainty
Sources
All Three Zones Monitoring by Corey Sznajder
(Photo: Steph Chambers / Getty Photography)
In a bold move, Alpine has announced it will switch to Mercedes engines in 2026, ending a long chapter of partnership with Renault. This significant change in strategy will make Alpine the fourth team to be powered by Mercedes engines, joining a growing list of teams to benefit from the German manufacturer’s expertise and performance.
The End of an Era: No More Renault Engines for Alpine
The announcement marks the end of Alpine’s reliance on Renault engines, which have powered the team since its rebranding in 2021. Despite several strong moments, including occasional podium finishes, the Renault engine has often struggled to keep up with the competition in the current generation of F1 regulations, introduced in 2014. For Alpine, the decision to shift to Mercedes power comes as a strategic move to enhance performance and adapt to the upcoming changes in F1 engine regulations.
Alpine to Become the Fourth Mercedes-Powered Team in 2026
This partnership with Mercedes means that from 2026, Alpine will be one of four teams powered by Mercedes engines. Currently, Mercedes supplies engines to three other teams, and with Alpine joining the fold, it solidifies Mercedes’ position as the dominant engine supplier in the sport. This move is seen as a potential game-changer for Alpine, who will now have access to Mercedes’ superior engineering and power, which could boost their competitiveness in the sport.
The partnership will see Alpine not only adopt Mercedes’ power units but also benefit from Mercedes’ gearboxes, ensuring the team has the complete package for the new generation of Formula 1 regulations. This shift is expected to significantly impact Alpine’s performance as they work toward becoming a leading contender in F1.
Why the Change?
For Alpine, the decision to no longer use Renault engines and instead switch to Mercedes power is rooted in a desire for greater performance and consistency. While Renault’s engine program has had its successes, Alpine has struggled to match the speed and reliability of competitors like Mercedes and Ferrari in recent seasons.
With the introduction of new F1 engine regulations in 2026, Alpine is looking to align itself with a supplier that can offer not only cutting-edge performance but also the engineering expertise needed to meet the evolving demands of the sport. Mercedes, with its proven track record of success and dominance in the hybrid era, is seen as the perfect fit for Alpine’s aspirations.
Looking Ahead: Alpine’s Future with Mercedes Power
As Alpine prepares to enter the 2026 season with Mercedes engines powering their cars, the team will no longer be burdened by the challenges of developing an engine internally. The shift will allow them to focus more on their chassis development and overall race strategy. With Mercedes providing a reliable and competitive engine, Alpine’s ambitions to climb the F1 ladder are likely to be accelerated.
This partnership is also part of a broader trend in Formula 1, where teams are increasingly relying on established, high-performance engine suppliers. With Mercedes now supplying engines to four teams, including Alpine, the manufacturer is solidifying its role as a key player in F1 for years to come.
The announcement that Alpine will switch to Mercedes engines in 2026 signals a new era for the team and the sport. By joining the ranks of the Mercedes-powered teams, Alpine aims to leverage Mercedes’ superior technology and engineering to bolster their performance on the grid. As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Alpine to see how their switch to Mercedes power shapes their future in Formula 1.
The Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated showdowns in boxing history. On Friday, November 15, 2024, Mike Tyson will return to the ring for only his second fight since retiring in 2005, and his opponent is none other than the controversial YouTuber-turned-boxer, Jake Paul. This fight has been years in the making, and it promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
The Road to the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight
After multiple delays, health concerns, and constant speculation, the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson fight will finally take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. For Tyson, this fight marks a return to the sport, while for Jake Paul, it’s another step in his quest to prove himself as a legitimate force in the world of fighting.
Leading up to this monumental event, the excitement is palpable, and fight fans are buzzing with anticipation. To add to the drama, there will be a series of events this week designed to build the hype for the big night.
The Event Schedule
Starting on Tuesday, November 12, a week of thrilling events will unfold. Here’s a look at the schedule:
- Wednesday, November 13: The Final Press Conference at 7 p.m. ET at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory in Irving, Texas, will set the stage for the fight. Fans can catch the press conference live across multiple platforms, including Netflix’s YouTube channels, Instagram, and Tudum.
- Thursday, November 14: Public Weigh-ins at 7 p.m. ET. This key moment will let fans see the fighters up close before the Jake Paul fight. Streaming will be available on Netflix’s YouTube and TikTok.
- Friday, November 15:
- Preliminary Card at 5:30 p.m. ET: The night kicks off with several exciting matchups, including Shadasia Green vs. Melinda Watpool for the vacant WBO Super Middleweight title.
- Main Card at 8 p.m. ET: The long-awaited Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul will be the highlight of the evening, available globally via Netflix.
Full Fight Card
In addition to the headlining Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight, the night will feature several action-packed bouts, including:
- Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson (Heavyweight Bout)
- Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano (Undisputed Lightweight Title)
- Mario Barrios vs. Abel Ramos (WBC Welterweight Title)
- Shadasia Green vs. Melinda Watpool (WBO Super Middleweight Title)
- Lucas Bahdi vs. Armando Casamonica (Lightweight Bout)
- Bruce Carrington vs. Dana Coolwell (Featherweight Bout)
- Neeraj Goyat vs. Whindersson Nunes (Middleweight Bout)
Each of these bouts will bring its own level of excitement to the night, making it a must-watch event for any fighting fan.
How to Watch the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Fight
For the first time, the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight will be streamed exclusively on Netflix, available on all Netflix plans. The Jake Paul fight will begin with the preliminary card at 5:30 p.m. ET, followed by the main card, including the Tyson vs Paul fight, at 8:00 p.m. ET. Make sure to set your reminders for this unforgettable night of action.
What’s at Stake in the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Fight?
The stakes are high for both fighters. For Mike Tyson, the Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul event represents a chance to prove that, despite his age, he still has the skills to dominate in the ring. Tyson is a living legend in the sport, and this fight will add another chapter to his incredible legacy.
For Jake Paul, this fight is a golden opportunity to solidify his place in the world of boxing. Known for his controversial and brash persona, Paul has already won over a large fan base, but a victory over Tyson would elevate his status to a whole new level, proving that he’s more than just a YouTuber. It would be a huge statement in the world of fighting.
Why the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul Fight Is So Special
This fight isn’t just about boxing. It’s about two larger-than-life personalities from completely different worlds coming together for a historic battle. Tyson, a former world champion with a storied career, and Paul, a modern-day internet sensation, are set to collide in the ring in a match that has fans and analysts alike buzzing with excitement. The clash between experience and youth, legend and upstart, has generated incredible interest.
Don’t Miss the Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson Fight
The Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul fight on November 15 promises to be an epic showdown that boxing fans won’t want to miss. Whether you’re tuning in to see Tyson make his return to the ring or watching Jake Paul’s next move in his boxing journey, this event will deliver fighting action and drama like never before.
So, mark your calendars, grab your popcorn, and get ready for a night that will go down in history. The Jake Paul fight with Mike Tyson fighting Jake Paul could very well be the most talked-about event in boxing for years to come.
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Real Madrid superstar Vinícius Jr. is aiming for a historic season, revealing in an exclusive interview that he believes Los Blancos have the potential to achieve a historic treble. The Brazilian forward also expressed his desire to follow in the footsteps of his Brazilian idols by winning the Ballon d’Or.
In a conversation at his Madrid home, Vinícius expressed confidence in Real Madrid’s chances of excelling across all major competitions this season as they prepare to defend their Champions League title.
“Every year, our goal is to win every title we can,” Vinícius stated, reflecting on the club’s ambitions before their sixth European Super Cup victory against Atalanta.
Could Madrid Achieve Their First-Ever Treble?
Despite its numerous successes, Real Madrid has never achieved a European treble, comprising the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey. FC Barcelona remains the only Spanish club to have accomplished this feat, doing so in 2009 and 2015.
Vinícius Jr. explained why the treble has proven elusive, noting, “The Copa del Rey often disrupts our chances because it involves challenging teams throughout January, a period packed with games. This makes the cup competition particularly tricky.” While Vinícius emphasized that winning the club’s 16th Champions League is the squad’s top priority, he is also driven by the desire to “finally secure the treble.”
“The Champions League is the most challenging and prestigious competition, and it’s where Real Madrid always aims to excel,” he said. “Our fans expect us to win it, and so our focus is on achieving success in every competition we enter, with the ultimate goal of securing the treble.”
To truly grasp Vinícius Jr.’s impact over the past season, one needs to look at the numbers. His 15 league goals played a pivotal role in securing another Spanish title for Real Madrid. Additionally, his decisive goal in the Champions League final helped clinch Madrid’s second title in three years with a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley.
“I’ve always dreamed of playing for Real Madrid, so I cherish every moment as if it were the last,” Vinícius said. “Everyone wants to win with the best team in the world, and being able to score so many goals in important matches and contribute so significantly… I’m only 24, and I aim to continue this way for many more years, making history with this incredible team. Not everyone gets this opportunity, so I emphasize savoring every moment in this jersey.”
Despite missing two months of the 2023/24 season from November to January, Vinícius ended the campaign as Madrid’s top scorer, with 24 goals and 11 assists.
Dreams of Gold
With his ability to deliver in crucial moments and impressive statistics throughout the season for one of the world’s top clubs, it’s no surprise that Vinícius Jr. is the favorite to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, awarded to the best player in the world.
For Vinícius, claiming the award represents more than just personal achievement; it’s about honoring his Brazilian heritage and joining the ranks of his country’s greatest soccer stars. He aims to follow in the footsteps of legends like Marta, Ronaldo Nazário, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, and Kaká, all of whom have been recognized as the best in the world at various points in their careers.
“Marta is a true icon in women’s football. I deeply admire her for elevating the sport and making women’s football as respected as it deserves to be. She’s a pioneer, much like Pelé and Ayrton Senna are to Brazil,” Vinícius said.
He added, “For the men’s game, Kaká, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo are my role models. Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, in particular, are close to me and consistently encourage me to strive for the Ballon d’Or.”
Vinícius also shared that he has recently spent time training with Ronaldo Nazário, receiving personal guidance from the legendary forward.
“I recently trained at Ronaldo’s house in Ibiza, and he advised me, ‘Spend a few more days training here, and you’ll be closer to winning the Ballon d’Or.’ These are players who have achieved extraordinary things, and competing for the Ballon d’Or and winning an award that they have won would be truly incredible.”
The New Galácticos Era
Teammates Jude Bellingham and the newly signed Kylian Mbappé will be Vinícius Jr.’s primary rivals for the Ballon d’Or in October, as this latest version of Real Madrid boasts exceptional talent across the board.
Despite Mbappé being a key contender for football’s top honor, Vinícius is thrilled to have the former PSG star join the Spanish giants. “The team has been very strong for a long time,” he said.
“With Mbappé’s arrival, people are talking about the potential for us to become unstoppable, but for now, we need to focus on having great training sessions and quickly building our understanding on the field.”
Vinícius, who has long admired Mbappé from afar, is excited about playing alongside the World Cup winner. He expressed his admiration for Mbappé’s style and achievements, saying, “I love how he plays and I’m really looking forward to what we can achieve this season. He’s joining us after scoring many goals and winning numerous titles, and he’s coming to the club he has always dreamed of playing for—Real Madrid.”
“God willing, Mbappé will score as many goals for us as he did with his previous team and the national team, and hopefully even more with us,” Vinícius said.
While Vinícius assisted on the opening goal and Mbappé scored in his official debut for Los Blancos during a 2-0 UEFA Super Cup victory, Madrid stumbled in their La Liga opener against a determined Mallorca side, settling for a 1-1 draw away from home. This result highlighted the need for the team to develop better cohesion before reaching their peak performance.
Despite the setback in Son Moix and experiencing some early struggles in their home opener against Real Valladolid—where they eventually secured a 3-0 win—the stage is set for what promises to be an exceptionally successful season for Madrid.
Focused on Achieving Success with Madrid
Recently, there have been rumors suggesting that Vinícius Jr. was offered an astonishing $1 billion to move to Saudi Arabia, similar to speculation about his new teammate Mbappé in July 2023.
Despite the buzz, the Brazilian star made his future intentions clear: “I always strive to be among the best, and with each passing day at Real Madrid, I grow more confident.”
“I’ve already won two Champions Leagues, and I play alongside teammates who have each won six titles—like Dani Carvajal. Their experience motivates us daily to push beyond our limits andshows that anything is possible with our current team shows that anything is possible with our current team.
Achieving two Champions League victories in three years was incredibly challenging. Staying at the top level is even harder, so my goal is to maintain this level of performance for a long time and win as many Champions League titles as Carvajal, Luka Modrić, Nacho, and Toni Kroos, who have each won six.
We might have one of the best teams for the coming decade, and now it’s up to us to demonstrate our capability on the pitch. With each game, my teammates and I are working towards winning even more titles for Real Madrid.”
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