Vinicius Jr. or Neymar? Real Madrid star speaks out on Brazil’s iconic No. 10 ahead of 2026 World Cup
Vinicius has made his stance clear on jersey numbers after Neymar’s inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Brazil’s No. 10 jersey is one of the heaviest shirts in world soccer, carrying the legacy of legends like Pelé, Zico, and Ronaldinho. Neymar wore the iconic number for years until the devastating knee injury he suffered against Uruguay in October 2023.
In his absence, players such as Raphinha and Vinicius Jr. stepped into the role. But despite wearing the number himself on several occasions, the Real Madrid star made it clear who he believes truly owns it.
“I don’t know what number I’ll wear at the World Cup, but the No. 10 belongs to Neymar, that’s obvious,” Vinicius said in an interview with Brazilian YouTube channel CazeTV.
Vinicius steps aside for Neymar
Vinicius has worn Brazil’s No. 10 at different points since the 2022-23 season, taking on the responsibility whenever Neymar was sidelined with injuries.
Now, with the Santos superstar back in the Brazil squad, Vinicius is expected to return to the No. 7 shirt. The gesture is likely to resonate strongly with Brazilian fans, especially given the symbolic weight attached to the famous number.
Brazil’s legendary No. 10 returns
Few jersey numbers in sports carry the same prestige as Brazil’s No. 10. Pelé turned it into a global symbol, while generations of stars helped preserve its mythology.
Neymar inherited that responsibility for more than a decade and remains one of the defining faces of Brazilian soccer. With the World Cup just days away, Vinicius’ public show of respect underlines Neymar’s continued status inside the national team.
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