A former Real Madrid star has outlined the steps Vinicius Junior needs to take to reach the same legendary status as Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Brazilian forward has become a key figure at the Santiago Bernabeu and is enjoying a stellar campaign, contributing 13 goals and nine assists in just 19 matches across all competitions this season.
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However, ex-Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira believes Vinicius still has another level to reach—one that could place him alongside icons like Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Zinedine Zidane and Xavi.
He suggested that while Vinicius possesses incredible talent, his temperament on the pitch sometimes holds him back.
The German urged the winger to show more composure and respect if he aims to emulate the professionalism of his illustrious predecessor.
"He seems angry many times. Cristiano was a bit like that when he was young, but he changed quickly," Khedira told MARCA per Sportskeeda.
"If Vinicius wants to be like Messi, Zidane, Cristiano or Xavi, he needs to be a little more respectful with the opponent and the referees. That needs to change."
Vinicius recently finished second in the 2024 Ballon d'Or rankings, coming behind Manchester City's Rodri.
While the accolade slipped through his grasp this year, Khedira remains confident that the 23-year-old has the potential to dominate the award in the future.
"But speaking of football, he is a number one, of course. I am not a big fan of individual awards, but I think both Rodri and Vini were the best this year," Khedira stated.
"If Vini changes a little and becomes more of a gentleman and a leader, he will win three or four Ballon d'Or awards."
The former Juventus star also praised Rodri, highlighting the Manchester City midfielder's pivotal role for both club and country.
"I was a midfielder, and I love Rodri's football. If you see how City performs without Rodri, you realise his importance."I saw him play four matches in the Euros, and you can tell how he manages everything," he continued.
"Then there is Vinicius—he also deserves it. Vini changes games. When Madrid does not know what to do, they give the ball to Vinicius, and he fixes it."
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