Calls grow for Karim Benzema to be benched by Real Madrid
FootballReal Madrid Superstar Rejects Iconic Number 7 Shirt for Next Season
- Vinicius Junior is not interested in Real Madrid's number 7 shirt
- The iconic jersey number is currently being worn by Eden Hazard
- Hazard is on the brink of leaving the Spanish giants this summer
Real Madrid superstar, Vinicius Junior has reportedly declined the club's offer to wear the iconic number 7 jersey for next season.
The Brazilian winger currently dons the number 20 shirt for the 14-time European champions.
After joining the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium outfit from Flamengo in 2018, the 22-year-old wore the number 25 before donning the number 20 two years later.
ESPN Brazil claims Real Madrid were willing to hand the number 7 jersey, currently donned by Eden Hazard, to Vinicius.
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However, the reports further state that the electrifying forward declined the offer, meaning he will not follow in the footsteps of legendary Real Madrid attackers, Cristiano Ronaldo and Raul Gonzalez.
The Brazilian's current contract expires in 2024 and talks about a new deal are said to have been ongoing for some time.
According to Football Espana, there has reportedly been no movement from Vinicius' side despite Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez doing everything in his power to open up talks.
There are also reports claiming Perez might be willing to part with Vini in order to sign long-time target and Paris Saint-Germain forward, Kylian Mbappe in the summer.
Vinicius has been Real Madrid’s best player this season, covering in the absence of Karim Benzema, who has been plagued by multiple injuries this campaign.
Defender offers advice to Vinicius
Meanwhile, Real Betis wing-back, Aitor Ruibal said Vinicius needs to learn to handle the jeers and kicks he receives, Tribal Football reports.
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FootballThe defender was the latest player to clash with the Madrid star in a 0-0 draw, which dented Los Blancos’ chances of retaining the La Liga title.
Vinicius has had several altercations with defenders and opposing fans this season, including being targeted by racist chants by supporters.
Vinicius trolls Liverpool at Anfield
Sports Brief previously reported on Vinicius trolling Liverpool at Anfield after bagging a brace in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 clash.
The encounter was a repeat of last season's UCL final played in Paris, where the Spanish giants were eventually crowned the champions of Europe.
The Reds were desperate to get revenge on the La Liga champions when they locked horns but Vinicius decided to play some mind games on the Reds.