"Congratulations on continuing the King's legacy" - Pele Foundation send heart-warming message to Real Madrid star ahead of Copa America
Real Madrid star Rodrygo was recently congratulated by the Pele foundation for taking the mantle of the number 10 shirt for the national team at the Copa America. The shirt number is one of huge importance for Brazil and is viewed as a source of great joy.
The Los Blancos star will now wear the shirt number that has been worn by many legends of his homeland, including the king of football, Pele. Rodrygo will hope he can do the historic jersey justice and make his nation proud at the upcoming competition.
In a statement ahead of the Copa America, the Pele foundation said:
“For the Brazilian National Team the #10 is much more than just a number. But we are certain that, in Neymar's absence, Edson is happy about this moment, Rodrygo. The number 10 changes hands during the Copa America, but it will still beat the heart of a “Menino da Vila”. Congratulations on continuing the King's legacy, Rodrygo!"
The famous jersey was previously worn by Neymar, who is considered the greatest Selecao player of his generation. However, injury has ruled him out of this edition of the Copa America. Rodrygo will have big boots to fill, but has shown this season with Los Blancos that he is more than capable of stepping up to the plate.
The Real Madrid star will lead the line for Brazil in Group D against Colombia, Paraguay and Costa Rica starting on the 24th of this month. He will hope to continue Pele’s legacy and lead his country to continental glory.
Can Real Madrid star Rodrygo live up to the legacy of Pele and the Brazil number 10 shirt at Copa America?
The number 10 Jersey has a long and storied history for Brazil that stretches before and after legendary icon Pele. The shirt number is a symbol of joy and creativity for the South American country and often comes with a lot of responsibility to its wearer.
Real Madrid superstar Rodrygo will know what it is to play with the weight of expectation on one's back, having spent the bulk of his career at the biggest club in the world. The Los Blancos star has spent five years in the Spanish capital, playing over 200 times and scoring 54 goals and laying out 41 assists in front of the most demanding fans in the world.
The 23-year-old forward will be confident heading into this edition of Copa America following the season he has enjoyed with the storied Club. Rodrygo played a crucial part in Real Madrid claiming La Liga, the Supercopa de Espana and the UEFA Champions League last season, bagging 17 goals and nine assists in 51 appearances.
The new number 10 will therefore be confident that he has what it takes to lead his nation to glory in this summer's Copa America. With the blessing of the Pele foundation behind him, the Madridista will be confident of shining for his country.