UEFA’s Technical Observer panel on Tuesday named Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior as the 2021/22 UEFA Champions League Young Player of the Season.
Vinicius caught the eye of UEFA’s Technical Observer panel this season after six assists and four goals, including Real Madrid’s winner in the final against Liverpool.
The 21-year-old capped a breakthrough season with the only goal against Liverpool in the Stade de France final, burying Federico Valverde’s cross-shot at the far post in the 59th minute.
It was his fourth strike of the Champions League campaign, to go with six assists – a figure bettered only by Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes.
The bulk of those assists set up goals for 2021/22 UEFA Champions League Player of the Season Karim Benzema, as the duo forged an effective partnership.
While Benzema provided power and predatory instincts, Vinícius shone with his pace, quick feet and creative flair, best highlighted by his sensational solo goal in the 5-0 group stage win at Shakhtar Donetsk.