The Brazilian national team is going through a challenging period. Since the World Cup elimination against Croatia, the Canarinha has lost its identity and has yet to find its way. As an emergency measure, Fernando Diniz was hired as the coach until July 2024, without forcing him to leave his position at Fluminense.
However, the recent results have once again raised concern around the five-time world champions. Brazil lost its last two matches in the World Cup Qualifiers and has gone three games without a win. With several stars out due to injury, Rodrygo knows he will have more responsibility on his shoulders.
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Rodrygo hopes to turn up his game for Brazil
“The responsibilities were going to increase, and I knew that gradually, my time in the national team would come. Now without Neymar or Vini, even more is expected of me, and I hope to be able to repay the confidence placed in me in the same way,” said the Real Madrid star.
Vinicius suffered a hamstring injury, joining a long list of injured Brazilians including Neymar, Casemiro, Danilo, and Richarlison. Brazil needs to start winning again on their way to the next World Cup, and their next challenge will be none other than Argentina.
While it is a demanding match for the Selecao, Rodrygo believes that the respect is mutual: “I think they will respect us in the same way that we respect them: taking all possible precautions with all their dangerous players. It’s hard to know if they will press or wait; we still have that doubt.”
Samba Gold 2023: Open voting!
Voting for the Samba Gold Award 2023 is now open. Choose your favorite in the men’s, women’s and under-20 categories!