Raphinha replaces Neymar as Brazil’s No. 10 - Punch Newspapers
Raphinha has officially been named Brazil’s new No. 10, the Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed on Thursday, as the national team begins a new cycle without Neymar Jr. The Barcelona winger will wear the iconic shirt in the Seleção’s upcoming friendlies against Australia and India. The CBF released the full squad numbers ahead of Friday’s match against Australia in Townsville, the first fixture since Brazil’s Round-of-16 exit from the 2026 World Cup. As reported by football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano on X on Friday, Romano posted “OFFICIAL: Raphinha, Brazil’s new number 10 after Neymar Jr’s international retirement.” Endrick takes the No. 9 previously worn by Matheus Cunha, while Estêvão has been assigned No. 11 and Vinícius Júnior retains No. 7.See more Punch stories on Google.Add Punch on Google Goalkeeper Hugo Souza will wear No. 1. Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer with 80 goals in 130 appearances, retired from international football after the World Cup. The 34-year-old had worn the No. 10 shirt across four World Cup tournaments before confirming his decision in late July, saying his time with the national team had passed. England can win trophies without copying Spain’s style — Gordon Women’s Champions League: Lyon smash Servette 8-0, Barca bag five against Paris FC From Henry to Raphinha: 15 footballers who thrived after switching positions Raphinha has previously worn the shirt during Neymar’s absences, including during World Cup qualifying. Now, following Neymar’s retirement, the number becomes permanently associated with a new generation of the Seleção. The No. 10 carries deep historical significance in Brazilian football. It has been worn by some of the country’s greatest players, including Pelé, Zico, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Kaká and Neymar. Raphinha will now enter that lineage as Brazil begins a new era under head coach Carlo Ancelotti. His first appearance as Brazil’s official No. 10 comes against Australia in Townsville, with the Seleção’s next chapter already underway. Gilbert Ekugbe Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.
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