In a powerful display of unity and respect for one of football’s enduring icons, the Brazilian national team’s star-studded frontline has officially cleared the path for Neymar Jr. to wear the legendary number 10 shirt at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Despite months of speculation over a potential changing of the guard, recent reports from UOL Esporte and Goal.com confirm that Vinicius Jr., Raphinha, and Matheus Cunha have collectively stepped aside, ensuring that the 34-year-old Santos playmaker will lead the five-time champions in the tournament wearing the game’s most famous number .
“The 10 Belongs to Neymar”
The movement was led by Vinicius Junior, the Real Madrid superstar widely considered the heir to Brazil’s attacking throne. Having worn the number 10 during recent friendlies while Neymar recovered from injury, Vini Jr. was unequivocal when asked about the jersey’s ownership during an interview with Cazé TV.
“My number? I don’t know,” Vinicius stated. “But the number 10 belongs to Neymar—that is obvious” .
This sentiment is shared across the dressing room. According to UOL, Vinicius is already prepared to revert to the number 7 shirt—a number he famously wore during Brazil’s 2022 World Cup campaign and has deep personal affinity for .
Raphinha, who has long cited Neymar as his greatest footballing idol, is expected to retain the number 11 shirt rather than challenge for the iconic 10 . Meanwhile, Matheus Cunha, who wears the 10 at Manchester United, has also conceded the jersey, reportedly eyeing a different role—possibly the number 9—in Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical setup .
Behind the scenes, major sponsors are already pivoting their marketing campaigns to feature Neymar in the 10 and Vinicius in the 7, cementing the decision ahead of the official FIFA submission deadline on June 1 .
Matching Pelé’s Immortal Record
This decision carries profound historical weight. By wearing the 10 shirt in the United States, Canada, and Mexico this summer, Neymar will become only the second player in history—joining the legendary Pelé—to represent Brazil in four separate World Cups donning the number .
Pelé wore the jersey in 1958, 1962, 1966, and 1970. While Neymar seeks to emulate the King’s longevity, he will be desperate to succeed where the 2022 squad failed: bringing the World Cup trophy home for the first time in 24 years.
A New Role for a Veteran Star
While Neymar has been handed the symbolic honor of the 10 shirt, recent reports suggest that his role on the pitch may look very different from previous tournaments. Manager Carlo Ancelotti reportedly held a direct video call with the forward to outline a new reality.
According to Globo and beIN SPORTS, Ancelotti has made it clear that Neymar is no longer the “untouchable” captain nor a guaranteed starter, stressing that he will only play “if he deserves it” .
Despite the reduced on-field status, Neymar has reportedly accepted the new disciplinary code and competitive hierarchy positively, choosing to focus on helping the team in whatever minutes he is given .
With 14 days left until the tournament kicks off, the harmony inside the Brazilian camp is undeniable. The stars of the present have bowed to the legend of the past, ensuring that for one final dance, the 10 belongs to Neymar .
