Barcelona winger Raphinha has been handed Brazil’s iconic No. 10 shirt as the Seleção begins a new era following Neymar Jr’s retirement from international football.
The Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed the squad numbers on Thursday ahead of the team’s upcoming friendlies against Australia and India.
Raphinha will make his first appearance as Brazil’s permanent No. 10 when the team faces Australia in Townsville on Friday, in the Seleção’s first match since its Round-of-16 elimination at the 2026 World Cup.
Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano also confirmed the development on X on Friday, posting: “OFFICIAL: Raphinha, Brazil’s new number 10 after Neymar Jr’s international retirement.”
The 34-year-old Neymar previously wore the prestigious shirt at four World Cups and ended his international career after Brazil’s latest World Cup campaign. He remains the country’s leading goalscorer, having scored 80 goals in 130 appearances.
READ ALSO:Brent Crude Breaks $100 Barrier As Middle East Conflict Escalates
Neymar announced his decision in late July, saying his time with the national team had passed.
Raphinha had previously worn the No. 10 shirt whenever Neymar was unavailable, including during Brazil’s World Cup qualifying campaign. With Neymar now retired, however, the number has officially passed to the Barcelona star.
Other changes to Brazil’s squad numbers see Endrick take the No. 9 shirt previously worn by Matheus Cunha, while Estêvão receives No. 11. Vinícius Júnior retains No. 7, while goalkeeper Hugo Souza has been allocated No. 1.
The No. 10 shirt holds a special place in Brazil’s football history, having been worn by legends such as Pelé, Zico, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Kaká and Neymar.
Raphinha now joins that illustrious list as Brazil starts a new chapter under head coach Carlo Ancelotti.