Real Madrid were rocked at the end of the 2022-23 season by news of Karim Benzema’s decision to leave the club after 14 years, in order to pursue a new adventure at Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad.
Having only signed Joselu as a striking option so far this summer, and with no more signings expected through the door before the end of the transfer window, it means that Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo will shoulder more responsibility next season, as per Diario AS.
The Brazilian duo both had excellent 2022-23 campaigns. Vinicius notched 23 goals and assists, while Rodrygo added 19 and 10 respectively. Between them, they accounted for 52.8% of Real Madrid’s goals, and with Benzema now no longer at the club, there will be an even greater reliance on the young duo.
Carlo Ancelotti is considering a switch in formation, which would see Vinicius and Rodrygo act as strikers in a 4-3-1-2 system, with new signing Jude Bellingham in behind. This would certainly allow them to improve their numbers even further.
Real Madrid will be delighted at the continual progression of Vinicius and Rodrygo since they joined the club in 2018 and 2019 respectively, and they will hope that continues on into next season.
