Real bank on Benzema-Vini to keep up winning run

Real Madrid are confident they can rely on a deep pool of talent already at their disposal rather than go on a shopping spree to improve on a stellar 2021-2022 season.

After winning a 35th LaLiga title and 14th Champions League, both record-extending achievements, Real knew that they did not need to overhaul a squad in pursuit of soccer’s biggest trophies.

Instead, they opted to do some tinkering by offloading 30-something veterans such as Gareth Bale, Marcelo and Isco, while bringing in former Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger on a free transfer and France midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni from Monaco.

Their focus was on improving the on-field chemistry of their in-house talent, specifically Karim Benzema and Vinicius Jr, before they kicked off the new season against promoted Almeria on Sunday.

Benzema had a stellar 2021-2022 campaign as he scored 44 goals in 46 games in all competitions, while 21-year-old Brazil winger Vinicius enjoyed a breakout season by netting 22 times.

As he nears his 35th birthday in December, Benzema has lost none of his speed or accuracy up front, which in turn convinced Real that they did not need to sign a back up.

“It’s just impossible to replace Benzema, he is the best forward in the world,” Real manager Carlo Ancelotti said

Lining up alongside Benzema will also allow Vinicius to hone his already incredible skills further.

His youth, energy and explosive speed has allowed him to form a destructive partnership with Benzema. He showed his worth when he fired in the game-winning goal against Liverpool in last season’s Champions League final in Paris.

“Vinicius has an extra gear like no other player, his speed and explosion is unique and I look forward for him to be even better this ... season,” Brazil coach Tite said in a interview.

“He is now a much-improved player thanks to his relentless working mentality and to Ancelotti’s work in polishing him. He will be an instrumental piece for Real and for Brazil this year.”