‘Real Madrid play better without Vinicius’, Ex-Barcelona star makes bold claim
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineFormer Barcelona midfielder Gerard Lopez has claimed that Real Madrid are a more balanced team without Vinicius Junior after the Spanish giants defeated their rivals 2-1 at Camp Nou in El Clasico.
Madrid secured all three points despite being without the Brazilian winger, who missed the encounter because of a domestic suspension.
Lopez argued that Vinicius’ absence had benefited the team tactically, allowing Madrid to display greater balance and work harder collectively.
Speaking on Movistar Plus Deportes, the former Barcelona player said: “Real Madrid is better following the loss of Vinicius. This is how it is. The team is much more balanced. Without Vinicius this team runs more and runs better.”
Lopez also praised summer signing Yan Diomande, identifying the winger as Madrid’s standout performer in the closely contested victory.
“For me, he is the best player of the match for Real Madrid,” Lopez declared.
Diomande started on the left flank in Vinicius’ absence and made an important contribution to Madrid’s attacking play. His acceleration down the wing helped create the opening goal, which Kylian Mbappe scored towards the end of the first half.
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Madrid eventually completed a 2-1 victory over Barcelona, strengthening their position in the La Liga title race.
Vinicius remains unavailable under his four-match suspension and will also miss Madrid’s weekend fixture against Racing Santander and their November 7 meeting with Valencia.
However, the Brazilian is expected to return for Madrid’s Champions League clash against AEK next week.
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