Vinicius: “I have been a fan of Karim Benzema since I was a kid.”

Speaking in an exclusive interview with AS, Real Madrid forward Vinicius discussed his game, Karim Benzema and life in Madrid.

On relationship with Real Madrid fans

This is something that I’m very proud of. I do believe that my style of play has a lot to do with it. I like to take players on and if I mess up, I’ll try again. I hope to have this relationship for many years to come.

Does your style of play originate from where you grew up in Brazil?

Here I like to play as if I was at home in Brazil. I like to play with happiness and with the help of the fans’ support. We play to keep the supporters happy.

Champions League

Winning the Champions League is very difficult. Manchester City were the best team last season and they didn’t win it. Almost all the players here have won four Champions League titles and everything is in place to try to win it and go further than last season. Our heads are already up after that painful elimination against Chelsea.

On Carlo Ancelotti’s advice

He talked about taking less touches before shooting. The manager has spent a lot of time working with me and has been instrumental in helping me improve my game.

On Karim Benzema

Playing with Karim is fantastic. I have always been a big fan of his since I was a kid. It is a pleasure to play next to him. He always helps me. He is one of the best players in history. I really like playing alongside him. He always talks to me on and off the pitch.

Life in Madrid

I live with my family and my little brothers and really like living in the city. I feel at home in Madrid. My physio also lives with us and we work together to ensure that my diet is healthy.

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