Vinicius Junior Emerges as Key Figure for Brazil Amid Neymar’s Injury

With Neymar currently out of the lineup due to injuries, Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid has stepped forward as a crucial figure in Brazil’s offensive strategy. His performance has been bolstered by the leadership of Carlo Ancelotti, who brings significant experience from his tenure at Real Madrid. Since Ancelotti assumed the role of head coach for the national team, Vinicius has netted two goals in six matches with the world champions.

Ancelotti is pleased with Vinicius’s contributions but has a vision for expanding the 25-year-old’s role within the team. During discussions, he highlighted the potential advantages of a new position, especially considering Vinicius’s current struggles at the club level.

In an interview with PLACAR, the Brazil manager stated: “I envision him as a winger or even as a central striker. Vinícius possesses the quality to score numerous goals. I explained to him, ‘When you’re playing as a winger, scoring requires three or four dribbles and touching the ball seven or eight times. In a central position, however, a single, well-timed movement can lead to a goal.’ He grasps this concept and enjoys the idea of playing there.

“We can leverage a player who can significantly impact as a winger, though I acknowledge that he isn’t suited as a conventional forward in the box. However, when given space to attack the area, he becomes extraordinarily dangerous.”

As Ancelotti continues to explore innovative tactics and player positions, he has also suggested a new role for Neymar, aimed at accommodating his physicality and reducing the injury setbacks that have marked his career.

Discussing Neymar’s potential return ahead of the World Cup, Ancelotti remarked, “Yes, yes (laughs), the question I hear most often is about Neymar, which is understandable given his legendary status in Brazilian football. Everyone is eager for Neymar to regain his optimal physical condition, including the CBF, the coaching staff, and the national team. The reality of modern football demands not just talent but also physical fitness and intensity. I hope Neymar can return to his best.

“I believe he should play more centrally, rather than as a winger, as modern wingers are expected to contribute defensively as well. Playing a more central role requires less defensive work, allowing a talented player to be closer to the goal and create more scoring opportunities. A false nine position could be ideal for him.”

Following a disappointing defeat to Japan during their Asia tour, Brazil will head to England and France for international friendlies against African teams Senegal and Tunisia on November 15 and 18, respectively. After the November international break, the Selecao will have just two more preparatory matches in March next year before traveling to North America for the World Cup.