Ex-Flamengo, Vini Jr. to play in a new role at the World Cup | OneFootball

Ex-Flamengo, Vini Jr. to play in a new role at the World Cup | OneFootball

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·13 May 2026

Ex-Flamengo, Vini Jr. to play in a new role at the World Cup

Article image:Ex-Flamengo, Vini Jr. to play in a new role at the World Cup

Ancelotti will use the former Flamengo player as a second striker, not as a left winger


Coach Carlo Ancelotti intends to move Vini Jr. away from the left wing for the Brazilian National Team. That is because the Italian wants to use the youth academy product of Flamengo as a second striker. According to TNT journalist Vitor Sergio Rodrigues, Raphinha will take over the left side.

Ancelotti will use Vinicius as a second striker, and Raphinha will play on the left. Period. Vinícius will be the second striker, Matheus Cunha will play alongside him, and on the right they still have to see whether it will be Luiz Henrique — the commentator said.


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Has Vini Jr. already played as a second striker?

Under Ancelotti himself, the former Flamengo player formed an attacking duo with Rodrygo at Real Madrid (ESP) in the 2023/24 season. At the end of the campaign, the star received the FIFA The Best award for best player in the world.

Which Flamengo players will be at the World Cup?

Besides the Real Madrid forward, Flamengo will be represented by center back Danilo, confirmed by Ancelotti himself. However, Alex Sandro, Léo Pereira, Lucas Paquetá, Pedro, Léo Ortiz and Samuel Lino are also awaiting the call-up.

When will the Brazilian National Team make its World Cup debut?

So, with Vini Jr. and Danilo in the squad, Brazil will make its debut at the 2026 World Cup on June 13. The Seleção will face the Moroccan National Team at MetLife Stadium in the United States.

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

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