‘Cristiano Ronaldo inspires me,’ says Vinicius Jr. For me, he is an idol’ Vinicius and Rodrygo: Real Madrid’s new No. 7 and No.11, taking on the mantle from Cristiano Ronaldo and Paco Gento

Rodrygo and Vinicius are their names. Vinicius and Rodrygo are two of them. They are inseparable both on and off the field of play. The two Brazilians made their debuts for Real Madrid in the same campaign.

Following the departures of Karim Benzema, Marco Asensio, and Eden Hazard from the attack, the two are forced to take a step forward. Something reflected in their new numbers: the ‘7’ for Vinicius and the ’11’ for Rodrygo. Los Blancos has a long history with these two numbers.

“I’m honored to wear this jersey that so many great players have worn,” Vinicius said. “It means a great deal to me.” “I’ve liked that number since I was a child,” Rodrygo explained. Numerous footballers who have played with those numbers at Real Madrid come to mind for both of them, but there is always one who serves as a role model and reference.

“I am inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo because I have seen all of his games and he defined an era at the club.””He’s an idol to me,” Vinicius admitted. Paco Gento, for his part, retains Rodrygo: “He won six Champions Leagues, and it would be an honor to be able to stay close to that achievement.”

Vinicius and Rodrygo celebrate with the Copa del Rey trophy.

When asked about each other, they were overcome with an unavoidable and innocent smile. “The best thing about Rodrygo is how well he understands the game, his quality, and what he does on the field,” a former Flamengo player says. “The best thing about Vini is that he always goes one on one, wherever it is,” Rodrygo continues.

Finally, they were asked to come up with a word to represent the pair of attackers they make up. It’s “incredible” to Vinicius, and “a complete duo” to Rodrygo.