Vinicius Jr is popularly considered to be a successor to Neymar in the Brazil national team. The prolific winger has been busy giving defenders nightmares in Neymar’s preferred position, the left flank. The youngster’s reputation continues to grow as Vinicius has just won the 2023 edition of the ‘Samba de Ouro’. It’s awarded to the country’s best player of the year. Interestingly, Neymar had held their record previously for three consecutive years. Could this signify a change in the leadership in the Brazilian soccer camp?

While Vinicius has been racking up goals for Real Madrid, his international stats don’t make up for a good reading. With 3 goals in 25 matches, fans will be hoping for much more from their young superstar, starting from the 2024 Copa America.

Vinicius Jr ousts Neymar as the 2023 Samba Gold Winner

Vinicius Jr has become the latest winner of the Samba Gold Award. The award was previously held by his compatriot and soccer icon Neymar consistently from 2020-2022. This is Vinicius Jr’s first Samba Gold and coincidentally, the first time a Brazilian playing for Los Blancos has won it. Along with Vinicius Jr, Tamires, and Marcos Leonardo also bagged prizes for the best women’s and under-20 players, respectively. This is a fan-voted award. The award is a matter of immense prestige and significance, dating back to Kaka’s triumph in the inaugural 2008 edition.

With 6 awards, Neymar has the most Samba Gold titles. Perhaps Vinicius would be looking to overtake his idol. Despite competing for the same position on the pitch, Neymar and Vinicius share a lot of mutual respect. In an interview given to the Guardian, the Real Madrid attacker revealed his admiration for the former Barcelona star. He said, “He (Neymar) is my idol in football. If had a chance to play with him, I would feel very happy.” The duo won’t be linking up anytime soon, as the Al Hilal icon is recovering from an ACL injury with doubts over his national team career.

Is Neymar’s Brazil career over?

Despite being Brazil’s leading goalscorer, it’s safe to say that Neymar’s career hasn’t hit the expected heights. A key reason is injuries. Ever since his move to PSG, the soccer veteran has faced nearly 20 separate injury issues. His current ACL tear pretty much encapsulates his post-Barcelona career. While the icon steadily recovers, questions surrounding his future with the national team have come up.

Read More: Neymar Extends Support To Rodrygo Over Racial Abuse After Spat With Lionel Messi At Brazil vs. Argentina WC Qualifiers

With a wealth of talent like Rodrygo, Gabriel Martinelli, Vinicius Jr, and Endrick, it is starting to look unlikely that Brazil will count on their iconic #10 for the 2026 World Cup. With rumors surrounding Carlo Ancelotti’s potential arrival, Neymar’s future at the Selecao remains to be seen.

Can Vinicius replace Neymar as Brazil’s talisman? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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