Real Madrid forward hopes to replicate success at club level with Brazil
Vinicius Junior has downplayed Brazil’s status ahead of the World Cup, insisting the Seleção are not favourites despite their pedigree in the competition.
“I believe that [the national team] isn’t the favourite based on the results we’ve had,” Vinicius said. “But the weight of the jersey, the weight of the players we have here, we’re going to do everything to put Brazil on top again. We don’t want to be favourites, we want to put Brazil on top.”
Brazil remain the most successful nation in World Cup history with five titles, though their last triumph came in 2002. Since then, their best finish was fourth place on home soil in 2014.
Results under head coach Carlo Ancelotti have been inconsistent since he took charge last year. Brazil finished fifth in qualifying and have produced mixed performances since, including a defeat to Japan alongside wins over South Korea and Senegal.
Vinicius believes Ancelotti has improved the team’s structure and mentality.
“We just needed to click,” Real Madrid’s forward said. “After Ancelotti arrived, we have a better idea of how to play. He takes a lot of pressure off us.”
The 25-year-old is expected to play a key role in Brazil’s campaign, even though his international scoring record remains modest compared to his club form.
“I’m in the happiest moment,” Vinicius said. “Everything I do at Real Madrid, I hope to do here with the national team. I don’t pay much attention to what people say. I know my job and how dedicated I am to the World Cup.
“It’s where all the players want to be. Regarding my form, I always try to be at my best, scoring goals and providing assists. I imagine everyone wants me to be one of the protagonists. I’m prepared for all the challenges in my career. I’ve already played in a World Cup, I don’t want to lose again.”
Brazil open their World Cup campaign against Morocco on 13 June, with Scotland and Haiti also in their group.
