For several years, Neymar has been the undisputed face for the Brazilian national team and donates the legendary No. 10 sweater with distinction. But when Brazil enters the latest Conmebol FIFA World Cup qualification campaignThey are in a new era. With Neymar again due to injury is the iconic number to grab– and there are three strong candidates that can carry it: Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Raphinha or another rising star.
With Brazil set to face Colombia on March 20 and Argentina on March 25Head coach Dorival junior Have had to make a decisive decision on who will inherit Neymar’s famous number for these high efforts.
Brazil’s current qualification campaign has been a challenging. After their disappointing quarter -final output at the 2022 World CupSeleção has fought for texture. They are currently sitting fifth in the Conmebol positionA far from the dominant team fans have expected.
Dorival juniorwho took responsibility in early 2024, has been commissioned to rejuvenate the squad. Since his appointment, 15 players have made their older debutsreflects the ongoing transition. But even with an abundance of attacking talent, the absence of Santos Star remains a massive void to fill.
Vinicius and Raphinha – Brazil’s new superstars?
Then winning The best FIFA -Mas Player Award last year, Vinicius has continued to establish itself as one of the world’s top ahead. Play together Kylian Mbappe on Real MadridVinicius has already recorded 29 goal infections this season And is still one of La Liga’s most dangerous attackers.
But his performances for Brazil have been inconsistent. Despite his electrifying club form, he has not yet received points in the current World Cup qualifier campaign and have only succeeded an assist on 550 minute action. Vinicius is undoubtedly a superstar, but with his fighters in a Brazil shirt, Dorival has looked at other options.
Another strong challenger for No 10 was Barcelona’s Raphinhawho have been in Sensational form for their club. He has already registered 45 goal insumptions in all competitions 2024-25Which makes him one of Europe’s most productive players.
His Champions League performances have been particularly outstandingSet a new record for goals by a Brazilian during a single season (11). While he’s been Brazil’s top scorer under Dorival junior (4 goals)It was not enough for him to keep the # 10 shirt this time.
The new No. 10: Rodrygo takes the limelight
Both Vinicius and Raphinha were worthy candidates, it was Rodrygo eventually chosen to carry Neymars No. 10 -Sweater For the upcoming matches against Colombia and Argentina. Rodrygo has been a key figure on Real Madridcontributory 12 goals and 8 assists this season. Despite speculation that he can lose his place after Mbappe’s arrival, he remains crucial to Los Blancos.
By carrying No. 10 sweaterThe Rodrygo enters the shoes on Brazilian greats such as Pele, Zico, Ronaldinho and Neymar. Right now 24 years oldHe already has Two Champions League and two La Liga titles with Real Madrid, along with 31 caps and seven goals for Brazil.
