Almost a year ago, Neymar suffered a serious injury in a game against Uruguay. In the next 13 games, the Samba Army won less than 4 percent.
In October 2023, the Samba Army lost 0-2 to Uruguay, and Neymar ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament. At one point, the media thought that Neymar would be out for nine months, but after a full year, Neymar's comeback is still far away.
Despite being questioned about form, the Samba Army's results plummeted in Neymar's absence. In the 13 games that Neymar has missed, Brazil has only five wins, five draws and three defeats, with a win rate of only 38.4%. Meanwhile, the Samba Army scored only 17 goals and conceded 12.
In the first two games in Neymar's absence, Brazil lost to Colombia and Argentina. After a nine-game unbeaten run, Brazil lost to Paraguay on 10 September.
After Neymar's absence, Rodrygo took over the number 10 shirt and has scored three goals in the last 13 games. However, Globo Sports noted, "He's got a good performance, but he can't solve the team's problems alone." ”
Despite the possibility of winning the Ballon d'Or, Vinicius has not been outstanding for the national team. In the 13 games that Neymar has missed, Vinicius has scored just two goals and provided two assists, and has failed to score in nine games.
Although Vinicius, Rodrygo and Endrick all played for Real Madrid, it was the little-known Igor Jesus and Luis Enrique who scored for Brazil in the game against Chile.
Brazil coach Nunes, who is currently coaching in the Chile league, said: "My feeling is that there is a lack of players who can keep Brazil at the top level. There are still great stars, but they can't show what they can do in the national team.
Dolívar is looking forward to Neymar's return, "We are aware of the importance of Neymar. From the moment he returns, we can enjoy the performance of one of the best players in the world. However, we need to be patient. ”
The real problem is that with multiple injuries and a move to Riyadh Crescent, Neymar is already demoralized, and even if he returns to the national team, he will not be able to continue to lead the Samba Army forward.