Until Neymar makes his grand return to the Brazil national team, the legend’s No. 10 shirt goes to Rodrygo, who calls the privilege “a lot of pressure.”
The Seleção are back in action during the October international break, set to take on South Korea and Japan in two friendlies now that they have officially qualified for the 2026 World Cup.
Neymar has yet to earn a call-up under new boss Carlo Ancelotti as the Brazilian continues his long journey to full match fitness after years of injury struggles, leaving his number 10 up for grabs. With Raphinha out injured, the shirt now belongs to Rodrygo, something the Real Madrid star does not take lightly.
“It’s a lot of pressure because of the legends who have worn this shirt. I’m just starting out,” Rodrygo said in an interview with .
Past owners of Brazil’s No. 10 include Neymar, Pelé, Zico and Ronaldinho, some of the best to ever represent the Seleção. Rodrygo is in esteemed company, though the weight of the shirt is nothing new to the 24-year-old, who has worn the shirt multiple times over the last two years.
“I always make it clear that this shirt still belongs to Neymar. I’ve worn it because of his injury problems. But in the games where I have to play with the number 10, or whatever number it is, I’m ready to give my best for Brazil,” Rodrygo said.
