Brazil All-Time World Cup XI + 5 Players to Watch in 2026
Alisson Becker
A Modern-Day Premier League Elite Between the Sticks
Carlos Alberto
Captain of the Legendary 1970 World Cup-Winning Team
Jairzinho
Scored in Every Game at the 1970 World Cup
Julinho
A Key Player During the Late 1940s and 1950s
Zico
One of the Greatest Players in History to Never Win a World Cup
Rivellino
Offensive Dynamo and Crucial Part of 1970s Dynasty
Neymar
All-Time Highest Goalscorer for the Brazilian National Team
Rivaldo
Technically Masterful 1999 Ballon d’Or Winner
Romario
One of the Most Prolific Goalscorers to Ever Do It
So, those are the greatest of all time, but how about right now? Who are the players you need to know before World Cup 2026 kicks off in America, Mexico and Canada?
Gabriel
The rise of Gabriel over the years has seen him become one of the most dominant defenders in the Premier League. It did take him quite a while to earn his Brazil debut, but now that he has, he will be thrust into a key role. At 28-years-old, he is entering his first World Cup in the prime of his career, and he will be expected to be a leader to players who may have more experience on the international stage.
Marquinhos
Having crossed the 100-cap mark for his country, Marquinho knows all about the disappointment of failing to live up to the expectations of the Brazilian fans. However, at 32, he is still operating at his peak, and this is arguably one of the most balanced national team units he has been a part of. He will need to be a talisman in the heart of defense, a sturdy and reliable fixture that stands firm so the squad’s offense can do their thing.
Alisson Becker
At 33, Alisson is very clearly still right in the thick of his prime. Who knows, perhaps he will still be in the mix when the 2030 World Cup comes around. With Liverpool, he has won pretty much every tournament of note since joining them, as well as the 2019 Copa America with Brazil. Still, winning the top prize in international football is the key to securing your legacy as an all-time great. If Alisson wants that acclaim, he needs to make his mark when it matters most.
Vinicius Jr
When Brazil made their last appearance in the World Cup, Vini Jr. was only a year into his senior international career. He was by no means the key player he has become now, or at least he didn’t adequately show it. This time around, there is an expectation that he is capable of lighting the entire tournament on fire. Whether he will be able to fulfil that billing remains to be seen, but if you’re looking for the leader of this Brazilian side, this is a clear candidate.
Raphinha
Is Raphinha poised to be the star man for Brazil in 2026? It’s impossible to say for sure. However, given that he’s been in top form and at the veteran age of 29, there’s every chance that this Barcelona star will be expected to be the talisman this time around. If the Raphinha who has lit up Spanish football over the last two seasons shows up this summer, things could get very, very interesting.
So, what’s your prediction for Brazil at the World Cup? Who’s your favorite player from now or from history? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
