The ’10’ has always been the most iconic number in the history of Brazilian football. Legends like Pelé, Ronaldinho, Rivelino, Zico, and Rivaldo have worn it. Since Neymar’s absence, the spirit of the ’10’ in Brazil has remained vacant. But with his return to the Brazilian national team after more than a year and a half, the Santos player will reclaim his jersey.

Who has worn the ’10’ for Brazil without Neymar?

During the last edition of the Copa América, Rodrygo asked for permission from Neymar himself and took on the responsibility of wearing the number ’10’ for the Brazilian national team. After the tournament, in which neither he nor Brazil lived up to expectations, he continued wearing the jersey during the matches against Ecuador, Paraguay, Chile, and Peru in the South American World Cup qualifiers.

However, it was surprising that in the last FIFA window, it was Raphinha who wore Brazil's number ’10’ in the draws against Venezuela and Uruguay, which have further complicated the situation for the ‘Canarinha’. Raphinha, however, was one of the few players from Brazil who met the challenge. In fact, he scored the equalizer against Venezuela.

Raphinha will give the ’10’ of Brazil to Neymar

His outstanding season at FC Barcelona, where he’s making his case for a potential Ballon d'Or win, led many to believe he would continue wearing the number ’10’ for Brazil over Rodrygo. However, Neymar Jr.’s return has changed everything. Raphinha understands the hierarchy and has had no issue returning the number ’10’ to its rightful owner.

After a very promising start to his return to Santos more than 10 years later, now Neymar has the mission of restoring the hope that Brazil has been losing in recent times… and he will do so wearing the number ’10’ in the matches against Colombia and Argentina. “His teammates have highlighted what he represents for the group,” pointed out Dorival Jr.