Endrick Praises Neymar and Places Him Above Romário and Ronaldo Heading Into the 2026 World Cup

Endrick, the young forward from Lyon, declared that Neymar is his biggest influence and placed him above legends like Romário and Ronaldo heading into the 2026 World Cup.

Endrick and his idol at a World Cup

Brazil is preparing to face the 2026 World Cup with a mix of experience and youth that is sparking excitement among fans. In this scenario, Neymar continues to be a central figure, despite his injuries and his recent absence from friendly matches, despite the injuries that have affected him in recent months. His influence transcends generations and is reflected in the words of Endrick Felipe, a 19-year-old forward for Olympique de Lyon, who once again publicly expressed his admiration for the Santos number 10.

"Without a doubt, Neymar"

In an interview on the Men in Blazers podcast, Endrick didn't hesitate to place Neymar at the top of his personal list of idols. "In my life, the soccer legend I've seen play, dribble, and do everything is, without a doubt, Neymar." The young striker also acknowledged the greatness of historical figures such as Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Romário, and Ronaldinho, but made it clear that his top role model is Neymar, whom he considers a true soccer legend.

Endrick emphasized that Neymar has that "Brazilian DNA" that captivates and motivates anyone who sees him play, a style that combines talent, improvisation, and charisma. This is not the first time that the Lyon striker has spoken in this regard: on other occasions, he has already highlighted the influence of the star from São Paulo on his career. His testimony confirms that, despite the ups and downs and injuries, Neymar continues to lead the way for the new generations of Brazilian soccer players.

Two stars, one World Cup, and less than a week

The combination of Neymar's experience and the freshness of young players like Endrick fuels the "Canarinha's" hopes for the World Cup. However, the 34-year-old star's current situation is marked by his recovery from an injury to his right calf. For that reason, he will not travel to Cleveland for the last friendly match against Egypt and will remain in New Jersey to intensify his physiotherapy treatment.

Brazil will make its debut in Group C on June 13 against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, then face Haiti on the 19th in Philadelphia, and close the initial phase against Scotland on the 24th in Miami. The expectation is huge and, although the clock is ticking for Neymar, his influence is already felt in the locker room and in the voices of those who consider him a symbol of the green and yellow team