Brazil’s journey at the 2024 Copa América ended in heartbreak, with the team bowing out in the quarterfinals after a tense penalty shootout against Uruguay. Right-back and team captain Danilo, just shy of his 33rd birthday, voiced uncertainty about his continuation in the national squad.
Danilo spoke from Las Vegas after the match ended in a draw and shootout, hinting he might retire due to the strain of playing for the national team.
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The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) wants to keep Danilo, seeing his leadership as crucial for the young team’s growth and stability leading up to the 2026 World Cup. Team officials view his direct style and ability to motivate as unique compared to other players like Alisson and Neymar.
Family first
However, the stress of constant travel and extended periods away from family has weighed heavily on Danilo, who balances his national commitments with his club career at Juventus.
To help with this, the national team management plans to give him some time to rest before any decisions are made, with discussions set before the mid-August announcement of the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The right-back spot is also a worry. Yan Couto, the backup, faces internal issues. Emerson Royal from Tottenham and Vanderson from Monaco are potential replacements, but neither has fully proven they can match Danilo.
As Brazil moves past their Copa letdown, the goal is clear: boost morale, improve the team, and maintain leadership. The big question remains whether Danilo will continue to lead or step aside.
