Ricardo Rocha sees Flamengo’s Danilo ready to lead Brazil at 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Former Brazil defender Ricardo Rocha says Flamengo’s Danilo could provide leadership for Brazil at the 2026 World Cup, echoing his own off-field role in 1994.

Rocha was cut through injury on the eve of USA 94 but stayed with the squad and helped unite the group as they won the title. “Danilo was the first name called, Ancelotti trusts him. He is experienced. In 94, when I was injured, I watched from the outside and noticed who was most upset. You have to be perceptive. Danilo can do that very well. He has a good head, he is a serial winner and, off the pitch, he will be fundamental,” he told Diario de Pernambuco.

Weeks before the official list, Carlo Ancelotti had already confirmed Danilo’s call-up, despite the defender being a Flamengo reserve. The Italian praised his versatility as the scorer of the Libertadores title-winning goal, and highlighted the 34-year-old’s leadership.

Unlike Rocha in 1994, Danilo is expected to see significant minutes at the tournament. With Wesley injured and ruled out, the Flamengo player, a hero of the club’s fourth Libertadores crown, will also be used at right-back for Brazil. He is competing with Ibañez for a starting place in the opener.

Brazil begin their World Cup campaign on Saturday 13 against Morocco at 19:00 Brasília time in New Jersey, United States.

Source: Coluna Do Fla