Former Brazilian striker Ronaldo Nazário believes that the Brazilian national team must develop a playing style centered around Vinícius Júnior and Neymar if they hope to win the 2026 World Cup. In an interview with Romário, published on YouTube, the two-time world champion emphasized that both players are key pillars and that the team should adapt to maximize their talent.

"Neymar is an important pillar. Vinícius Júnior is also an important pillar. We have two great players. We must start there and find a way for the team to play for them," Ronaldo analyzed. He also stressed that both need more freedom in the squad to perform at their highest level, just as they do for their clubs.

Regarding Neymar, Ronaldo stated that his quality masks Brazil’s structural football issues, and he hopes that, once fully recovered from his injury, he can lead the Seleção with his talent and personality. As for Vinícius Júnior, he praised his performance at Real Madrid but acknowledged that he has yet to replicate it with the national team. According to Ronaldo, this largely depends on coach Dorival Júnior and his ability to position the players optimally.

Ronaldo supports a foreign coach

The former striker also shared his thoughts on Brazil’s coaching staff, arguing that the team needs a foreign coach, as he believes Brazilian managers are currently "two steps below the world’s top level." In this regard, he highlighted Abel Ferreira, the Portuguese manager of Palmeiras, as an interesting option.

Finally, Ronaldo reiterated his desire to become president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) in the future. He assured that he would implement an efficient management approach, increase investments, and further develop Brazil’s football talent pipeline. "The CBF must become the most beloved institution in Brazil. My goal is for football to be a transformative force in the country," he concluded.