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“Not Neymar” – Despite Demolishing Pele’s Record, Al Hilal Star’s 2026 World Cup Prospects Dismantled, as MLS Icon Picks $140,566,930-Rated Teammate as Brazil’s Main Man

Published 09/12/2023, 1:15 PM EDT

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via Getty

The 2026 World Cup will be held in the USA as the country prepares to welcome many soccer nations. Following Argentina’s victory with Lionel Messi at the 2022 Qatar World Cup, attention has turned to Brazil and their pursuit of lifting the trophy for the first time since 2002. They have a fan following across the world, and their fans are hungry for success. With Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti expected to take over the reins after the current season, the national team boasts a coach with a remarkable pedigree. Despite breaking Pele’s record, there are questions about his current ability. 

And owing to this, MLS icon Alejandro Moreno detailed the impacts of having Neymar as the nation’s top man. Instead, he wants Vinicius Jr. to lead the team from the front. The left winger has come off age in the last two seasons, turning into a world-class talent. Hence, with his influence on the winger, Moreno believes Brazil is in much safer hands. 

MLS icon believes Vinicius Jr. should replace Neymar!

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Moreno gave his own version of the analysis featuring Neymar’s involvement with the national team going forward. It comes after the Brazilian soccer star broke Pele’s all-time goal-scoring record for his nation. The MLS icon stated, “You’re going into the 2026 World Cup. It should not be Neymar’s team. If you had a natural evolution of this group, this should be Vinicius’ team. It should be Vini Jr’s World Cup. It should be his moment. If you’re still dependent on Neymar to be that guy, then you have a problem.”

via Imago

Among all the World Cup teams, Brazil possessed a talismanic leader in the front. In the 2002 World Cup, Ronaldo led the line and assisted them to win the World Cup. Soon after, Ronaldinho rose to prominence along with Kaka. After that, Neymar took over the role, and Moreno wanted a change up front for the 2026 World Cup. He believes Neymar had enough opportunities to prove himself and never stepped up during crucial moments. Moreno also accepted the fans knew the player for his “inconsistency rather than his talent and productivity.”

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Moreno ended, “You wanna lean on that guy who’s three years older? Not that guy! If you’re a Brazilian fan and the Brazilian manager, you’re looking as to who you rely upon to be that difference maker in the final third of 2026. You’re thinking of Vinicius Jr. as the guy. Not Neymar!”

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Vini Jr. is a star!

The Brazilian superstar has matured into a stunning player in the last two seasons. He scored 45 goals and created 41 assists, showcasing his unbelievable productivity. The left winger cuts inside using his impressive dribbling ability and is more composed in the final third. He makes the right decisions and delivers during high-pressure matches. 

via Reuters

The issue lies in the national team, where Vini Jr. and Neymar play in the same left-wing position. With both players cutting in from the left to be decisive, the decision remains for the national boss to incorporate these players into the national team. So, who do you think should start for Brazil?

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Written by:

Jacob Gijy

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Jacob Gijy is a senior sports writer at EssentiallySports, with a passion for writing about soccer, NBA, and other American sports. He has published over 1500 articles to date, showcasing his creativity and engaging writing style that captivates his audience. As an ardent admirer of Arsenal, Jacob's soccer roots can be traced back to the legendary Thierry Henry.
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