Vinicius Jr, the numbers that hurt

It’s a well-known fact that we make the numbers say what we want. And what is certain is that statistics, in a debate, do not often succeed in getting everyone to agree. The proof with the controversies which followed the awarding of the Ballon d’Or to Rodri to the detriment of Vinicius Jr.

Bresilia supporters highlight his statistics from last season: 26 goals and 12 assists in all competitions. Great performances, of course, but clearly not those of a player who would have flown through the season. The proof: these codes (which are not enough to summarize the quality of Vinicius’ season, please respond) are comparable to Florian Thauvin’s best season with OM.

Vinicius is less strong than Salah

Obviously, the comparison is quite humiliating for Vinicius Jr. Here is another one, not very flattering: Brazil’s “Ballon d’Or” season is barely better in accounting… than Mohamed Salah’s worst season at Liverpool.

Since 2017-2018, seven seasons in a row, the Egyptian has compiled at least 36 goals and assists. This is the 2019-2020 season, from Liverpool to the final champion of England. The Ballon d’Or is still attributable in 2020, and Salah, after the Reds’ success in the Champions League in 2019, will be awarded 5th place for the Ballon d’Or (the best class).

The season has passed, Salah has compiled 25 goals and 13 passing decisions. This is also Vinicius’ contribution in 2023-2024 and, yet, the Liverpool striker is a similar figure to the 30 Ballon d’Or finalists. The Pharaoh is not without help from the performances of his team, who are content with winning the League Cup. But, individually, availability was still there.