Real Madrid superstar hails Barcelona ace – ‘Among the best 2-3 players in the world’ | OneFootball

The final international break of the season is finally here, giving most nations across the world a chance to fine-tune their squad before the big World Cup this summer.

All eyes will be on Brazil, in particular, as the 2026 World Cup will be a defining one for the record champions, who haven’t won the competition since 2002.

While much has been said about Neymar recently, Brazil’s hopes will be pinned mostly on two players: Raphinha and Vinicius Jr.

The two players are fierce rivals on a club level, but there is much bonhomie between the two within the Brazilian national team.

Vinicius heaps praise on Vinicius

In fact, Vinicius Jr. has recently heaped praise on Raphinha, even acknowledging that he has been one of the world’s three best players in recent memory.

Brazil are banking on Vinicius and Raphinha in the upcoming World Cup. (Photo by Edilzon Gamez/Getty Images)

“Raphinha has been among the best 2-3 players in the world recently, if not the best. He’s doing excellent,” he said (h/t Fabrizio Romano).

Few can blame Vinicius’ deduction as Raphinha has indeed been a revelation under Hansi Flick, with many even believing that he should have won the Ballon d’Or in 2025.

This season, however, the Brazilian has struggled with injuries and a little bit of form since the turn of the year, although his most recent form has once again sparked optimism.

Raphinha has indeed been involved in 27 goals in all competitions this season. He will look to replicate this form with the Brazilian national team, heading into the World Cup.

His combination play with Vinicius Jr. will be particularly important as new coach Carlo Ancelotti looks to bring the absolute best out of these two talented attackers.