Ronaldo tips Brazil for World Cup success: "They can go far" | OneFootball

Ronaldo Nazário, two-time world champion with the Brazilian National Team, analyzed the national team’s prospects for the 2026 World Cup in an exclusive interview with Betfair. The Phenomenon commented on players who could stand out, possible opponents, and Neymar’s situation, projecting his chances of being among those called up.

“Brazil has everything it takes to be strong in 2026. Beyond the historical weight that the national team carries, we have players already established in Europe and other new ones who are standing out. We have Ancelotti in charge, who is an excellent coach. I believe Vini Júnior will be ready to be one of the protagonists, alongside Neymar, Alisson, and Casemiro. And names like João Pedro, Estêvão, Savinho, and Endrick can also contribute a lot. I’m really rooting for these youngsters,” said the champion of the 1994 and 2002 World Cups.

One of Brazil’s biggest names in recent times, Neymar is still experiencing an unstable moment due to injuries. Despite this, Ronaldo commented that he sees the star working on his best physical condition at Santos to be in good shape for the 2026 World Cup.

“Neymar is a unique player, that’s unquestionable. The question everyone is asking is whether he’ll be physically fit for another World Cup. I see him working towards that. There are many injuries to recover from, but it would be strange if I said it’s not possible, right? He can indeed arrive in good shape and make a difference. Let’s hope for that,” he pointed out.

Still talking about the number 10 of Alvinegro Praiano, Ronaldo recalled how important Neymar’s presence is among those called up.

“He had a complex injury, and serious injuries always trigger other pains that end up hurting the athlete’s work sequence. But he remains focused, and I not only believe he’ll be among those called up, but he’ll also be very important for Brazil in 2026. A star, our main player, and with the experience to add to this new generation that will be at their first World Cup,” evaluated Ronaldo.

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Ancelotti in charge of the Brazilian National Team: “He knows how to get the best out of everyone”

The former number 9 of the national team also commented on what he expects from Italian Carlo Ancelotti leading the Brazilian National Team at the World Cup.

“I was lucky to work with Ancelotti at Milan and I can say he’s an extraordinary coach, with enormous tactical knowledge. What struck me most at the time was the way he deals with players. Ancelotti knows how to get the best out of everyone, he creates an atmosphere of trust and that’s fundamental in a World Cup. He earns the respect of the athletes, captivates everyone, and when you have someone of that level in charge, the team grows,” he said.

“With him, Brazil gains a lot in organization, tactical discipline, and also in group management. This new generation is eager to learn and they can make great use of Carlo’s experience, in addition to the calmness he has always conveyed to the players. I truly believe the National Team will be stronger for the 2026 World Cup. Top-level leadership off the field is just as important as the talents in action,” he continued.

The teams that will rival Brazil for the title

The former player also projected the main competitors for the Brazilian National Team at the 2026 World Cup.

“It’s hard to talk about favorites so far in advance, in a short tournament like the World Cup, but there are teams that, most of the time, arrive strong. In this cycle, that’s the case for France, Argentina, and Spain,” Ronaldo highlighted.

“France has a very powerful squad, with several stars and Dembele, currently the best player in the world. A team that comes with more experience for this World Cup and can be very tough. Argentina, the current champion, also remains a thorn in our side – always a tough opponent, with several players performing at a high level in Europe and, of course, Messi, one of the greatest of all time. To finish, I see Spain a little behind, but also with great favoritism and young promises like Lamine Yamal and Pedri,” he concluded.

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