World Cup-winning defender sees Flamengo star ready to lead Brazil to hexa | OneFootball

Ricardo Rocha believes Danilo could have a similar role in 2026

One of the leaders of the 1994 Brazil National Team, Ricardo Rocha was cut on the eve of the fourth World Cup title, but remained with the squad at the World Cup in the United States. The former Flamengo player played a key role in keeping the group united for the triumph. In the 2026 squad, Danilo could play the same role, according to the Pernambucano.

— Danilo was the first one called up, Ancelotti trusts him. He’s an experienced guy. In ’94, because I got injured, I started watching the day-to-day from the outside and noticing who was more upset. You have to be perceptive. Danilo can do that very well. He has a good head on his shoulders, he’s won it all and, off the field, he’ll be fundamental — Ricardo said in an interview with ‘Diario de Pernambuco’.

CAPTAIN WITHOUT THE ARMBAND?

Weeks before the official squad announcement, Carlo Ancelotti had already confirmed Danilo’s call-up, even with the defender on the bench at Flamengo. The Italian highlighted the versatility of the scorer of the title-winning Libertadores goal, but also praised the leadership of the 34-year-old player.

However, unlike Ricardo Rocha, Danilo is expected to play a lot of minutes at the World Cup. With Wesley injured and ruled out, the hero of Flamengo’s fourth Libertadores title will also be used at right back for the Brazil National Team. In fact, the Flamengo player is competing with Ibañez for a starting spot in the World Cup opener.

WHEN WILL BRAZIL’S FIRST WORLD CUP MATCH BE?

With Danilo battling for a starting place, Brazil will make its World Cup debut this Saturday (13) against Morocco at 7:00 p.m. (Brasília time). The match will take place in New Jersey, United States. Coluna do Fla, of course, will bring the match result and highlight the performances of the red-and-black players in the clash.

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