Rodrigo Goes has said goodbye to this season. The winger has injured his anterior cruciate ligament and lateral meniscus in his knee and will miss the World Cup. It was a tough blow for the player, who returned to the pitch for the first time in a month against Getafe, and will now be out for about 10 to 12 months. I’m worried about the situation at Real Madrid, but who will replace him in Brazil?
Rodrygo was in Carlo Ancelotti’s side when he became available, meaning the Italian will have to enter the top flight at national team level without his best attacking ability. He has scored two goals and provided one assist in the four games he has played, but his contributions on the pitch go beyond statistics, given his versatility in dribbling and attacking areas.
Rodrigo has primarily played on the right side for Ancelotti’s Brazil side, but he can also play on the left as a playmaker or even in a forward position. His special bond with Vinicius, with whom he can swap positions on the pitch, was one of the main assets Kanarinhad had in this tournament.
For the five-time champions to have any chance of winning the tournament, they will need to make up for the absence of the first player to take over Neymar’s number 10 shirt.
Rafinha, a natural successor
Placing the Barcelona star on the right or in midfield would make the most sense given his experience and experience with the national team. His quality and leadership, combined with his performances in La Liga, make him an essential player for Brazil. The 18 goals he has produced this season are already in his favor and his absence in the Blaugrana team is very noticeable.
Another candidate is Estevao, this time for the pure right wing position. The Chelsea striker played in every call-up and scored five goals in total, making him the Brazilian’s top scorer under Ancelotti.
endrik, favorite
“Bobby”‘s performance at Olympique Lyonnais was very intense. His performance in the first few games has made him one of the best debutants in Ligue 1 history, and it will be very difficult for him not to have a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s team.
The Italian is his main supporter and has already dropped hints. “He could be available for the 2026 World Cup… “The important thing is that he returns to play and shows his quality,” he said in a press conference before leaving Real Madrid. It remains to be seen which position he will play for Brazil, as he plays on the right side alongside the striker at Lyon.
Is the door open for Neymar’s return?
“10” for “10”. The Santos player has recovered from his knee injury and is gradually showing good feelings on the pitch. His World Cup presence depends solely on his fitness. “If he is healthy, he has the level to be in any national team, any team on the planet,” Carlo admitted.
“If Vinicius moves to a forward position alongside players like Matheus Cunha and Richarlison, Ney’s role will be in midfield or on the left. The Brazilian wished Rodrygo the best of luck and sent encouragement to him through a statement on social networks.
Other options
Other candidates who could take that extreme position include Luis Enrique (Zenit), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal) or Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo). All of them spent time under Carlo.
There are many cards on the table and many questions for Ancelotti. The next international break against France and Croatia at the end of March will provide fresh clues.
