Neymar Picks Brazil’s ‘Best’ Player at Copa America 2024: Vinicius Junior vs Rodrygo De Goes

• Neymar Junior has chosen Brazil's key player between Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo de Goes ahead of Copa America 2024
• The Real Madrid pair will be crucial if the Canarinha want to wrest the South American championship away from Argentina
• Dorival Junior's charges will commence their quest for Copa America success against Costa Rica later this week, June 24

Neymar Junior has picked Brazil's 'best' player between Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo de Goes ahead of their maiden game at Copa America 2024.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star, still recovering from his ACL injury, will miss his second Copa America in the last three tournaments, leaving a significant void in the Brazilian squad.

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With Neymar absent, Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo are expected to lead the charge for the Canarinha.

Both Real Madrid stars showcased formidable form at club level, having contributed to Los Blancos' La Liga and UEFA Champions League triumphs last season with a combined total of 41 goals.

However, their performance for the five-time world champions has not matched their club success thus far. Despite this, they remain pivotal to Brazil's quest for a 10th Copa America title.

Unfortunately, the Samba Boys' recent form has been lacklustre, culminating in a disappointing 1-1 draw against the United States in their final warm-up match before the tournament.

The result prompted 2005 Ballon d'Or winner, Ronaldinho, to initially announce his intention to boycott watching Brazil, labelling them as 'perhaps one of the worst teams in recent years', beIN Sports reports.

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However, Ronaldinho has since reconsidered his decision, pledging his support as the Canarinha prepare to face Costa Rica in their Group D opener tomorrow (June 25).

Neymar picks Brazil's key player

Looking ahead to the tournament, Neymar has shared his thoughts on the Vinicius vs. Rodrygo debate.

He acknowledged Vinicius' importance to the team but ultimately endorsed Rodrygo as his preferred choice to shine under Dorival Junior's guidance.

"Brazil’s key player? I think Rodrygo. Vini will do what he does but I think Rodrygo is different, he’s a craque [playmaker]," Ney said, as quoted by MadridZone.

Neymar backs Vinicius to win Ballon d'Or

While Neymar identified Rodrygo as Brazil's key player for the Copa America, the Al-Hilal star has endorsed Vinicius for the Ballon d'Or this year, as Sports Brief previously reported.

Reflecting on Vini Jr.'s performance this season, Neymar emphasised the strong bond he shares with the Real Madrid forward and also expressed his commitment to supporting him.