News Focus
- Rodrygo explains how an injury has shown him a new side of the World Cup away from the pitch
- The Brazilian forward met icons including Zinedine Zidane and Kaká during events in New York
- He admits players see social media comments and stresses the importance of filtering out negativity
- Rodrygo reflects on Brazil’s opening draw with Morocco and the unique pressure of the tournament
Taking part in a World Cup is a massive occasion for any footballer. When you join the national squad, your whole world becomes the team routine. You move between the hotel, the training ground, and the stadium. Every part of your day links back to the matches.
I followed this pattern every day during the 2022 tournament in Qatar. I understood then how much total commitment the competition requires. However, during the current 2026 tournament, an injury has kept me off the pitch. This twist of fate has shown me another face of the World Cup. I now see it as a time for meeting old friends. Events take place across many cities and nations at the same time. These create chances for talks and special moments.
During two afternoons in New York, I met true legends. I saw icons and friends from my football journey. These were valuable times. I listened to them, shared thoughts, and gained support from stars like Marcelo, Kaká, Paul Pogba, and Zinedine Zidane. What began as a simple sponsor event turned into a relaxed chat. Different generations came together through their love of the game. We stood near the Brooklyn Bridge, close to hundreds of fans from across the globe. They all wanted a photo or a quick wave. I also have my own heroes. I was thrilled to get a signed shirt from Zidane, my former coach and a giant of the sport.
We spoke about past games and the electric mood that fills the air during a World Cup. Of course, we also discussed the matches already played. Everyone expects the best from Brazil, and in football that means winning. It is important to remember that the opening draw against Morocco was just the first step. Brazil went behind in that match, so gaining a point was vital for the group stage.
This tournament brings challenges like no other. Situations change fast, and nothing stays certain. If the first match does not go to plan, it does not mean the rest will follow the same path. In the same way, a big victory does not promise an easy next game or steady performances.
When we step onto the pitch for a World Cup clash, our minds have one clear priority: to play at our best. We prepare thoroughly to reach peak physical, technical, tactical, and mental condition. Every player defends the team and the country with full commitment.
Before and after the whistle, opponents are colleagues and friends. Yet once the game starts, each person focuses on their job. We all give everything to push the Seleção forward. You cannot control the final result, but you can control your effort and attitude. You must leave everything on the pitch.
Wearing the Brazil shirt brings heavy pressure, but it also creates a positive sense of duty. This pressure exists because of our great football history, our past titles, and our status in the game. The fans’ mood often depends on the result. This is normal in a nation that expects regular success.
As a player, you must understand that heavy criticism is not the end of the world. Likewise, huge praise does not mean you will win the trophy. It is crucial to tell the difference between fair analysis and comments made from pure anger or frustration.
Players are not robots. We see what people write on social media. I believe in using a mental filter. You must separate useful advice from rubbish that aims only to hurt and has no link to reality.
Sometimes, though, the amount of noise is so large that some comments still reach you. When this happens, your focus must return to the pitch. It is our job to make sure our performance on the grass speaks louder than any words online.