Vinicius Takes Center Stage for Brazil Amid Neymar’s Injuries

With Neymar once again sidelined due to persistent injuries, Brazil now turns to Vinicius as the focal point of their offensive strategy. The winger has increasingly become a vital asset for the national team, particularly benefiting from Carlo Ancelotti’s recent appointment as head coach, having previously collaborated with him at Real Madrid. Despite Vinicius’ inconsistent performances at the club level this season, Ancelotti is optimistic about his potential for growth and has encouraged him to embrace a new role as a center-forward in Neymar’s absence to optimize his contributions.

Ancelotti has taken the time to explain to Vinicius the distinctions between playing as a winger and a central forward. He highlighted that as a dribbler, Vinicius often requires multiple touches to create a scoring opportunity, whereas as a striker, a single, well-timed movement can result in a goal. Ancelotti stated, “I see him either as a winger or as a central striker. Vinicius possesses the quality to score numerous goals. I told him, ‘When you play as a winger, you may need three or four dribbles and seven or eight touches to score. But in the center, one well-timed movement is sufficient to find the net.’

“He has grasped the concept and enjoys playing in that position.”

Recently, Ancelotti was observed having a private discussion with Vinicius during a training session in London.

In a press conference, Ancelotti elaborated on his approach to player communication, emphasizing the importance of understanding their perspectives on various aspects of the game, including tactics. He remarked, “I have to communicate with everyone to grasp the players’ thoughts, tactically as well. It is crucial to ask them, engage with them, and understand their viewpoints.

“I won’t compel a player to assume a position they are uncomfortable with; I want them to play where they feel at ease. With Vinicius, it was more of a personal matter than a tactical one.”

Ancelotti expressed confidence that Vinicius can effectively collaborate with Rodrygo for the national team, just as they did under his management at Real Madrid. “Vinicius and Rodrygo can certainly work together because they are accustomed to it, having done so at Real Madrid,” he added. “I see them as focused, in good physical condition, and I am convinced they can significantly contribute to the national team.”

The relationship between Ancelotti and the Brazilian squad has cultivated a growing sense of trust and clarity among the team. Under his leadership, Brazil has secured three wins and two draws in six matches, confidently ensuring their qualification for the 2026 World Cup. One of Ancelotti’s notable accomplishments has been the broadening of the talent pool by incorporating emerging players such as Endrick and Vitor Roque, which enhances Brazil’s depth and flexibility in attack. Most importantly, the team has adeptly learned to operate without Neymar, adjusting their style and redistributing creative responsibilities across the squad.

Vinicius articulated that Ancelotti has played a pivotal role in Brazil’s evolution by reinstating belief and clarity within the team. He expressed the renewed confidence instilled by the manager: “He has done the same wherever he has coached, fostering confidence and maximizing the potential of every player in their optimal position. He consistently emphasizes his dream of making the Brazilian people happy, reviving the joyful football that defines us, and ultimately winning the World Cup.”

Brazil is set to face Senegal tomorrow during the international break, and Ancelotti plans to utilize these friendly matches to experiment with various player combinations and formations. These games will assist him in determining the most effective squad for the 2026 World Cup.

“We must continue learning and improving to be prepared for the World Cup,” Ancelotti concluded. “I am pleased with our progress thus far, but we must also acknowledge the mistakes we’ve made. Now is the time for errors, but in the World Cup, a mistake could mean going home.”