Brazilian number 10 legends before Rodrygo

A lineage of icons who have marked the history of football.
by
Desmond Efe-Khaese
2024-06-09 13:12:09

Wearing the famous number 10 with the Brazilian selection is synonymous of talent and responsibility.

READ MORE 

++ Will Endrick start vs. Mexico?

++ Where to watch Brazil vs. Mexico in Brazil, the US and Youtube

++ Rodrygo talks about the weight of being the No. 10 of the Seleção and makes projections

The giants of Brazilian football who have graced the number 10 jersey of the Seleção:

Pele (1958-1970)

Considered the greatest player of all time, Pelé scored over 1,000 goals during his exceptional career, guiding his country to three World Cup victories. An icon of world football, he reached a level of play that few have been able to match before or since.

Ronaldinho (2001-2013)

Although he has not accumulated as many trophies as some, Ronaldinho has won the hearts of fans with his flamboyant play and his infectious smile. One of the greatest dribblers in history, he was voted the best player in the world twice.

Zico (1976-1986)

A member of great Brazilian teams, Zico has never won the World Cup. But he scored more than 62 free kicks, becoming one of the most feared specialists in this exercise.

The new generation

Neymar (2010-2023)

Having become one of the youngest captains in history, Neymar has not yet won the World Cup, but is tipped to do so in 2026. He is on the way to becoming the top scorer in the history of the Seleção .

Rivaldo (1993-2002)

A true legend of Barça, Rivaldo left his mark with his extraordinary technique and his ability to change matches with a gesture of genius. Winner of the World Cup in 2002, he also won the Ballon d’Or in 1999.

Kaka (2002-2014)

Another member of the Brazilian coronation in 2002, Kaka shone more at club level, notably with AC Milan, which earned him the Ballon d’Or in 2007. An outstanding dribbler, he enchanted fans of the beautiful game.

Rodrygo (present)

After these illustrious predecessors, Rodrygo now has the honor of wearing the legendary number 10 of the Seleção. Winner of the Champions League with Real Madrid last season, the young 22-year-old striker is one of the great hopes of Brazilian football.

With his explosive dribbling and sense of goal, Rodrygo has already demonstrated his talent on the European scene. This summer, he will have the opportunity to take another step forward by winning the Copa América with the Seleção, a competition that Brazil is entering as favorites.

Heir to a heavy responsibility, Rodrygo will have to follow in the footsteps of these immense Brazilian number 10s who have marked the history of world football. A task worthy of his immense potential, which makes him one of the most exciting players of his generation.

Remembering Zagallo

Sambafoot Series launched a new documentary about the football legend Zagallo. Known as ‘Velho Lobo‘ and as superstitious as it gets, Zagallo helped shape what Brazilian football is nowadays — as a player and as a coach.

Binge the full series, available on Sambafoot’s Youtube channel.

Previous

by
Desmond Efe-Khaese
June 09, 2024