Vinícius Júnior delivered a masterclass in Real Madrid's 6-1 Champions League rout of Monaco, scoring once and providing three assists. The Brazilian forward had been booed by sections of the Santiago Bernabéu crowd earlier in the season, but his performance turned the atmosphere, earning him the man of the match award.

The victory comes after a tumultuous period for Madrid, with Xabi Alonso replaced as manager by Álvaro Arbeloa following a reported rift with Vinícius. His response on the pitch was emphatic, linking up with Kylian Mbappé and Franco Mastantuono to dismantle the French side and ease pressure on the new coach.

Arbeloa hailed Vinícius as "unstoppable" when the Bernabéu is behind him, a sentiment echoed by the player who spoke of the recent difficulties. This performance reasserts his importance to a team chasing major trophies this season, with the Champions League campaign now firmly back on track after early uncertainty.