Vitinha has been outstanding for Paris Saint-Germain, helping the team clinch the Ligue 1 title on Saturday. On 9 April, The Athletic FC Podcast discussed his impressive form.
What happened?
Vitinha arrived at PSG in 2022, after the club announced they were moving away from the superstar era. He had to find his place in the changing room, despite having an unsuccessful loan spell at Wolves.
Why it matters for Vitinha
Luis Enrique started using Vitinha as a No 6, the guy who anchors the midfield, towards the end of last season. This was a surprise, given Vitinha's physical characteristics, but he has an incredible work rate and often drops into the defensive line to pick up the ball.
Vitinha's journey is interesting, as he had to overcome criticism from Lionel Messi, who reportedly told him he wasn't very good during a training session. Yet, Vitinha is now one of the figureheads in the team.
What comes next?
PSG face Aston Villa in the Champions League quarter-finals, and Vitinha's performances will be crucial. He has been praised by Dermot Corrigan, who said Vitinha is super intelligent in how he uses the ball and is always available for his team-mates.
On Tuesday's episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, Ayo Akinwolere, Dermot Corrigan, and Tom Williams discussed Vitinha's role in the team. They highlighted his ability to receive the ball and face the play, which allows him to break the opposition's press.
Vitinha's PSG role is similar to how late-era Sergio Busquets played in the Spain team, where everything went through him. He has been a tremendous player and is exciting to watch, even when the team wasn't as well put together as it is now.
The full episode of The Athletic FC Podcast is available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify, and provides further insight into Vitinha's impressive form. Vitinha's work rate and intelligence on the pitch have made him a key player for PSG, and he will be looking to continue his good form in the Champions League quarter-finals.