Casemiro backs Rodrygo to replace Neymar

Versatile Brazil forward Rodrygo has hugely impressed international teammate Casemiro, who said on Saturday he could replace the injured Neymar as a World Cup starter.

Neymar is due to miss Brazil’s next two group games against Switzerland and Cameroon after he was injured in Thursday’s 2-0 win over Serbia. But Manchester United’s Casemiro says the Selecao have a new talent in Rodrygo, 21, who is ready to sparkle.

“Rodrygo lit up my eyes. He’s a star. God gave him the gift of playing football. It’s beautiful watching him play,” said Casemiro from Brazil’s training base in Doha.

Rodrygo normally operates on the flanks or as a centre-forward but his coaches at both club and international level have said he can play anywhere across the forward positions, including in Neymar’s No 10 role. Another who has impressed Casemiro is West Ham’s attacking midfielder Lucas Paqueta.

“Paqueta is the player who has developed the most,” said Casemiro.