Participating in a World Cup is an unparalleled experience; while representing the national team, all attention is directed towards the team’s itinerary – from the hotel to training facilities and the stadium. Everything centers around the matches.
During the 2022 World Cup, I adhered to this routine daily and recognized the substantial commitment the tournament entails. Now, as I recover from my injury in this 2026 edition, I’m encountering a different aspect of the World Cup: one filled with reunions and numerous events happening across various cities and countries, opening doors for conversations and remarkable experiences.
Over two afternoons in New York, I encountered true legends, icons, and friends I’ve made through football. These were invaluable moments where I could engage, share ideas, and receive encouragement from stars like Marcelo, Kaká, Paul Pogba, and Zinedine Zidane. What began as a scheduled appearance for a joint sponsor evolved into a relaxed and friendly discussion among different generations connected by the love of football. We were in close quarters with the fans, five players representing Brazil and France, greeted by hundreds of supporters from around the world, all eager for a brief interaction, a photo, or a wave. Personally, I also have my idols; I successfully secured a signed shirt from Zidane, my former coach and a titan in football history.
Sharing that space in the heart of the event arena near the Brooklyn Bridge, we reminisced about past experiences, the infectious energy that permeates the World Cup, and, of course, the matches that had occurred. Naturally, there are high expectations for the Brazilian national team, and in football, “the best” translates to victory. However, it’s important to acknowledge that the opening draw against Morocco was merely the first step in our journey; Brazil faced challenges during the game, and securing a draw was essential for what lies ahead.
The World Cup poses unique challenges that other competitions do not. Situations continuously evolve, and very little remains predictable. A less-than-ideal start does not imply that subsequent matches will unfold in the same manner. Similarly, a significant win does not ensure an easier next game or consistent performance levels.
It is akin to a marathon with a sprinting pace, where each stage feels distinct, creating opportunities for transformation throughout the overall journey. There are eight critical matches on the path to the title, and during the group stage, setbacks do not necessarily mean elimination. A single team can showcase various versions of itself throughout the tournament, which contributes to the incomparable nature of the World Cup.
When we step onto the pitch for a World Cup match, our focus is unwavering: to deliver our best. We have committed ourselves to arrive in peak physical, technical, tactical, and mental condition. Everyone involved is dedicated to representing the team and the nation with utmost effort.
Before and after matches, adversaries are fellow professionals and friends. However, once the whistle blows, the focus shifts entirely to our responsibilities, and we strive to help the Seleção advance. While the outcome remains uncertain, we can assure our dedication and the right mindset by giving everything on the pitch.
Wearing the Brazil shirt carries significant pressure, which also brings a positive sense of responsibility. This pressure stems from the greatness of our football, the titles we have secured, and our esteemed position in the sport. The mood of the fans often hinges on the results, which is understandable in a nation accustomed to frequent victories.
As players, we must understand that a wave of criticism is not catastrophic, just as a surge of praise does not guarantee success. It is essential to differentiate between factual assessments and opinions fueled by raw emotion and frustration.
Players are not insulated from the sentiments expressed on social media. I advocate for employing a filter: a method to distinguish the pertinent from the irrelevant, separating what merits a response from the negativity intended to hurt and disconnected from reality.
A World Cup player’s daily routine requires immense time and energy dedicated to the sport. Yet, players are human beings who maintain communication – even if just online – with family, friends, colleagues, and fellow players. Consequently, social media comments can easily reach them through various channels. Among these messages, some may aim to provoke distress or anxiety. A football player is a human who can be impacted by such images, videos, or remarks – just like anyone else. We do not actively seek out these comments; most players do not look for them and have support teams to manage the filtering process.
However, the sheer volume can sometimes mean that some messages find their way to us. When that happens, the focus should remain on our performance on the field. It is our responsibility to ensure that our actions during the matches speak the loudest.
