Real Madrid’s forward took center stage at the event held at Odete Sao Paio school

“He was always an exemplary pupil and showed his dedication both in the classroom and on the pitch.

“Very early on he showed his passion for football and, with a lot of hard work, determination and the support of his family, he made it to the top of international football.

“May Vinicius’ visit serve as an inspiration for all our students and may we continue to encourage the development of talent in our school, whether in sport, art, science or any other area.”

Real Madrid’s new No.7 has not forgotten his origins. Vinicius took center stage at the opening of a sports pitch named after him at the Odete Sao Paio school in Sao Goncalo, his hometown in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Vinicius invited former students of the school to play a pick-up game with current students of the school.

The game was streamed live on the school’s social media channels and one student even went viral on TikTok after posting a video regretting missing the day her idol visited the school.

“Things that happen when I don’t go to class,” wrote the girl.

“Vinicius studied with us during his childhood and adolescence,” a statement from the school started.

“He was always an exemplary pupil and showed his dedication both in the classroom and on the pitch.

“Very early on he showed his passion for football and, with a lot of hard work, determination and the support of his family, he made it to the top of international football.

“May Vinicius’ visit serve as an inspiration for all our students and may we continue to encourage the development of talent in our school, whether in sport, art, science or any other area.”