Vinícius Júnior says he feels happier and more confident as he looks ahead to the World Cup. The forward wants to bring his club form to the national team.
The 25 year old had a mixed season with Real Madrid. He struggled at the start. He went 16 matches without a goal. Some fans at the Bernabeu showed their frustration.
He has now turned things around. Vinicius has scored 17 goals and made 13 assists in 43 matches in all competitions this season.
He has enjoyed great success at club level. He has won two Champions League titles and three LaLiga trophies. But his record for Brazil is still modest. He has scored eight goals in 45 matches. Now he wants to change that.
“I feel more at ease, I’m happier, and when I’m happier, everyone around me is happier and more confident too,” Vinicius told reporters before Thursday’s friendly against France.
“I hope that everything I do for Real I can go on to do here with the Brazilian national team. That’s my biggest goal. It’s where I’ve always dreamed of being, and I want to bring great pride to our country and a lot of joy to our entire nation.”
Brazil are trying to bounce back after their exit in the quarter finals of the FIFA World Cup 2022. They lost to Croatia on penalties.
Vinicius said he is staying focused as the next World Cup gets closer.
“I know what I’m capable of and how much I’ve been working to be ready for the World Cup,” he added.
