Raphinha is set to wear Brazil’s iconic number 10 shirt following Neymar’s departure from international football, taking over a number that carries an extraordinary place in the history of the five-time world champions.
The Brazil Football Confederation has confirmed that the Barcelona winger will now wear the famous shirt for the national side. The change marks an important stage in Raphinha’s international career and comes as Brazil begins to move into a new era following Neymar’s international retirement.
Neymar’s departure leaves a significant gap in Brazil’s attack. Although he did not win a World Cup with the national team, his individual record is remarkable. He finished his Brazil career as the country’s all-time leading goalscorer, surpassing Pelé’s long-standing record.
For more than a decade, Neymar was closely associated with Brazil’s number 10 shirt. He wore it at major international tournaments and became one of the defining figures of the national team during that period. His departure therefore means the number is being passed on at a particularly significant moment for Brazilian football.
Raphinha, 29, has emerged as an important attacking player for Brazil in recent years. His performances for Barcelona have also helped establish him as one of the leading Brazilian forwards in European club football. His pace, direct running and ability to contribute in the final third have made him an increasingly influential figure.
Taking the number 10 shirt, however, brings a different level of attention. In Brazilian football, the number has long been associated with some of the greatest players the country has produced. Pelé made the shirt legendary, while Zico, Rivaldo and Ronaldinho also wore it during distinguished international careers.
The number has consequently become more than a squad designation. For generations of Brazilian supporters, it has represented creativity, attacking quality and responsibility in the final third. Raphinha will now become the latest player asked to carry that tradition forward.
His appointment also reflects the changing character of Brazil’s attack. With Neymar no longer part of the international set-up, the national team is entering a period in which a younger generation of players will be expected to take on greater responsibility.
Raphinha is not being asked simply to reproduce Neymar’s career or achievements. The two players have different styles and have made their names in different ways. Instead, the new number 10 has the opportunity to establish his own identity while wearing one of football’s most recognisable shirts.
The decision is therefore significant for both Raphinha and Brazil. For the player, it represents recognition of his growing importance to the national team. For Brazil, it is another visible sign that the side is moving beyond the Neymar era.
Expectations around Raphinha will inevitably rise now that he has inherited the number. His performances in Brazil’s famous yellow shirt will determine how the next chapter of the number 10’s long history develops.
Neymar leaves behind an enormous legacy. Raphinha now has the opportunity to create a different one of his own.
