Romário picks between Kaio Jorge and Flamengo’s Pedro for Brazil’s number 9 | OneFootball

Flamengo Transfer Target and Current Striker Compete for Spot on the Brazilian National Team

The 2026 World Cup is approaching, and coach Carlo Ancelotti still hasn’t decided on a striker. Thus, former player Romário weighed in on the choice between Kaio Jorge, who is of interest to Flamengo, and the current Flamengo striker Pedro for the Brazilian National Team.

— If the World Cup were today, I would take Kaio Jorge. Pedro, not today. His performance has dropped a lot and maybe he’s not yet ready to be the number 9 for the National Team — said the 1994 World Cup champion to TNT Sports on Thursday (15).

What’s the story with Pedro or Kaio Jorge on the National Team?

The indecision exists because no player has stood out as a striker during the “Ancelotti era.” However, the Italian coach likes Richarlison, who also hasn’t performed well. Therefore, Pedro and the Cruzeiro forward have emerged as candidates.

And what’s the story with Flamengo wanting to sign Kaio Jorge?

As soon as the 2025 season ended, the Most Beloved set their sights on the young player as a replacement for the current number 9. Three offers were made, but the Minas Gerais club rejected all of them and even renewed his contract to give the striker a higher salary.

But why replace Pedro?

It’s not about replacing Pedro, but Flamengo’s top scorer has a curious history of injuries. The striker, for example, is coming off a hand fracture followed by a muscle injury in his thigh. Moreover, coach Filipe Luís wants more options for how to set up the attacking sector.

And when is the World Cup?

The most famous national team football tournament kicks off on June 11. The Rubro-Negro could have several players called up for the competition. However, Brazil’s debut is only on the 13th of the month against Morocco.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.