On July 11, Brazilian football legend Rivaldo backed Vinicius Jr. to win the Ballon d’Or, while expressing his disappointment with the Seleção’s performance in the Copa América.
Rivaldo defended Vinicius Jr.: “Vinicius should be the biggest favourite to win the Ballon d’Or this year, as he has won every competition he has participated in. But the current Copa América and European Championship tournaments may have an impact on the Ballon d’Or, making people consider other candidates. Even if Brazil eventually exits the Copa América in the quarter-finals, I still believe Vinicius deserves the Ballon d’Or.”
Rivaldo then criticized this Brazilian team: “The criticism of the Brazilian team is normal, the players have to take responsibility. This Copa América campaign is a disgrace for Brazil, and our players need to work harder and put in more effort. Many of our players lack experience in important national team tournaments, and opponents no longer feel intimidated by Brazil.”
Rivaldo continued to criticize the Brazil team’s personnel changes: “The coach substituted experienced players at the last minute, but left 17-year-old Endrick on the pitch, who could not save the team. Why did you substitute key players like Rodrigo, Raphinha, and Paquetá before the penalty shootout? Have you ever seen Messi or Ronaldo being substituted before a penalty shootout? I was never substituted in the Copa América or the two World Cups I participated in.”
Rivaldo suggested Brazil should call up more players from the domestic league: “We have to call up more players who play in the Brazilian Serie A, as Scolari did in the 2002 World Cup. The coach often watches the Brazilian Serie A, but only selects 1-2 players from it, which is meaningless.”
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