Kenya Sport

Raphinha Takes Brazil's Iconic Number 10 Shirt Ahead of Friendlies Against Australia and India

Raphinha, the forward from Barcelona, has been given Brazil's famous number 10 shirt for upcoming friendlies against Australia and India. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced the squad numbers for the 26-man group heading to these matches, marking a new chapter in Brazil's attacking lineup after their recent World Cup.

A Shift in Brazil’s Offensive Leadership

The number 10 shirt, worn by Neymar for more than ten years, now belongs to Raphinha. At the same time, the young talent Endrick of Real Madrid will wear the number 9 jersey, a role previously held by Matheus Cunha who is absent for this international break. This change indicates a clear evolution in the Selecao’s frontline as veteran players make way for fresh faces.

Emerging Stars and Tactical Changes

Granting Raphinha this iconic number highlights his rising importance to Brazil’s national team, with coaches seeing him as a key playmaker to break down opposing defenses. Meanwhile, Endrick’s assignment of the central striker number shows Brazil’s faith in his potential to lead their attack in the long term.

The roster also reflects a youthful core: Estevao takes number 11, while Vinicius Junior continues with number 7. Defenders Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhaes hold onto numbers 4 and 3 respectively. Goalkeeper Hugo Souza wears number 1.

Upcoming International Tour Challenges

The team will face Australia twice, first in Townsville on Friday, then again in Brisbane four days later. The tour wraps up with a match against India in Kolkata on Saturday, November 3. This tough schedule offers the coaching staff a chance to experiment with new tactical setups ahead of competitive fixtures.

  • Squad Numbers:
  • Number 10: Raphinha
  • Number 9: Endrick
  • Number 11: Estevao
  • Number 7: Vinicius Junior
  • Number 4: Marquinhos
  • Number 3: Gabriel Magalhaes
  • Number 1: Hugo Souza
  • Friendly Matches Schedule:
  • First match: Australia vs Brazil, Townsville, Friday
  • Second match: Australia vs Brazil, Brisbane, four days later
  • Final match: India vs Brazil, Kolkata, Saturday, November 3

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