Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr is one of the best players in the world right now, manager Carlo Ancelotti said, adding that it was not a concern that their performances are so dependent on the Brazilian’s form this season.

The 22-year-old was key in helping Real win the La Liga-Champions League double last season and will be expected to lead his side to a morale-boosting win over arch-rivals Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg on Thursday.

“Real have a dependency on Vinicius Jr and that is a good dependency to have because he is one of the best players in the world right now,” Ancelotti told a news conference on Wednesday. “I see depending on Vinicius as a normal thing for us.”

“I don’t need to give him any extra advice. He will be facing a tough challenge against (Barcelona defender) Ronald Araujo and I think it’s going to be a fun one. I hope he wins.”

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez agreed with Ancelotti on Vinicius and said that his side would be underdogs in Thursday’s clash in Madrid. “Vinicius is making a difference. He is an exceptional player. He is a player you have to follow closely,” Xavi said.

Reuters