The Premier League Scramble to Be Brazil’s Number Nine
Brazil’s football legacy is etched in gold: Pelé’s flair, Ronaldo’s thunderous strikes, Romário’s cunning finishes, Jairzinho’s relentless energy. These icons propelled the Seleção to a record five World Cup triumphs, turning the number nine shirt into a symbol of predatory excellence. As the 2026 tournament looms in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the quest for Brazil’s number nine has ignited a fierce competition. With a wealth of attacking talent like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Raphinha, and even a possible Neymar comeback, the spotlight falls squarely on the central striker role. And here’s the twist—eight prime contenders ply their trade in the Premier League, where form over the next few months could decide who wears that iconic jersey and helps end Brazil’s 24-year World Cup drought.
The Premier League’s intensity offers the perfect proving ground for these aspiring stars. Under coach Dorival Júnior, selections for upcoming World Cup qualifiers will hinge on goals, grit, and consistency. Brentford’s Igor Thiago sits joint-second in the league’s scoring charts with four goals, Tottenham’s Richarlison has three, Chelsea’s João Pedro has two, and Nottingham Forest’s Igor Jesus has dazzled with four in cup ties. Richarlison and Pedro are frontrunners for the squad announcement, but the race remains wide open. Let’s dive into the key players vying for Brazil’s number nine spot, starting with the Premier League heavyweights.
Premier League Stars in the Hunt for Brazil’s Number Nine
Richarlison: Experience Meets Resilience
Tottenham’s Richarlison, at 28, embodies the blend of international pedigree and Premier League tenacity needed for Brazil’s number nine role. With 20 goals in 52 caps—trailing only Neymar’s tally among potential World Cup squad members—he’s no stranger to the big stage. He started Brazil’s recent qualifier loss to Bolivia but came off the bench against Chile, showing his versatility in a fluid attack.
This season, Richarlison has notched three Premier League goals for Spurs, often dropping deep to link play before surging forward. His work rate and aerial prowess make him a coach’s dream, but he must convert more chances to solidify his claim. If he can replicate his 2022 World Cup heroics—scoring three goals, including a brace against South Korea—Richarlison could be the anchor Brazil craves.
João Pedro: The Rising Blue in Chelsea’s Ranks
João Pedro, 24, arrived at Chelsea this summer with dreams of igniting his Brazil career. After stints at Fluminense, Watford, and Brighton, where he scored 20 goals in 2023-24, his move to Stamford Bridge marks his Champions League debut. Uncapped for goals yet, he’s featured in Brazil’s last two qualifiers, earning starts that hint at Júnior’s faith.
Pedro’s silky dribbling and clinical finishing shine in tight spaces, ideal for breaking down defenses in high-stakes matches. With two Premier League strikes already, consistency here could catapult him ahead. As Chelsea pushes for silverware, Pedro’s adaptation to the rigors of English football will be pivotal in his bid for Brazil’s number nine jersey.
Matheus Cunha: Wolves’ Goal Machine Eyeing a Breakthrough
Manchester United loanee Matheus Cunha, 26, is another Premier League force gunning for Brazil’s number nine. Last season’s 17-goal haul for Wolves was a career high, blending poaching instincts with creative flair. In 15 caps, he’s scored just once—a consolation in a 4-1 thrashing by Argentina—but his all-around game screams potential.
Cunha’s physicality suits the World Cup’s demands, where strikers must press and create. At United, a strong campaign could secure a regular Brazil starting berth. Watch for his interplay with wingers; if he meshes with Brazil’s stars, he might just edge out the pack.
Evanilson: Bournemouth’s Steady Scorer
Bournemouth’s Evanilson, 25, brings quiet reliability to the conversation for Brazil’s number nine. With only two caps and no goals for the Seleção, he’s an underdog, but his 10 Premier League goals last season speak volumes. Previously a Champions League regular at Porto, he’s adapted seamlessly to England’s pace.
Evanilson’s hold-up play and off-ball runs make him a tactical fit for Júnior’s system. Dropping out of Europe’s elite club competition hasn’t dimmed his shine; instead, it’s freed him to focus on Premier League impact. A prolific run now could force selectors to take notice.
Igor Jesus: Forest’s Electric Newcomer
Nottingham Forest’s Igor Jesus, 24, is the wildcard charging toward Brazil’s number nine contention. Fresh from Botafogo and a stint in the UAE, he’s exploded with four goals in his first two starts—against Swansea and Real Betis. His raw pace and finishing have lit up the City Ground, signaling a Premier League storm.
One goal in four Brazil caps shows promise, but Jesus needs to sustain this form against top-flight defenses. His direct style echoes Brazil’s attacking heritage; if Forest climbs the table, so will his stock.
Gabriel Jesus: Arsenal’s Comeback Hope
Can Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus, 28, rediscover his spark? Sidelined since January by an ACL injury, the former Manchester City man has 19 goals in 64 Brazil caps—a proven World Cup asset. His omission from Arsenal’s Champions League squad underscores the recovery timeline, but fitness is key.
Jesus’s movement and pressing were hallmarks of his prime; a timely return could see him board the plane to North America. For Brazil’s number nine race, his health is the ultimate wildcard.
Rodrigo Muniz and Igor Thiago: London’s Uncapped Duo
Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz, 24, and Brentford’s Igor Thiago, also 24, are uncapped Londoners dreaming big for Brazil’s number nine. Muniz must displace Raúl Jiménez at Craven Cottage, then pile on goals to alert Júnior. His physical presence and heading ability suit international battles.
Thiago, meanwhile, has roared back from last season’s injuries with five goals, including a brace versus Manchester United. This hot streak makes him hard to overlook. Both embody the Premier League’s melting pot, where form trumps fame.
Beyond the Premier League: Other Contenders for Brazil’s Number Nine
The Premier League dominates, but global talents lurk. Barcelona loanee Vitor Roque, 20, earned his lone cap in 2023 before returning to Palmeiras—his youth screams potential. Saudi star Marcos Leonardo, 22, dazzled at the FIFA Club World Cup with four goals, including two against Manchester City, yet awaits his senior debut.
Real Madrid’s Endrick, 19, is the prodigy: three goals in 14 caps, including a historic strike against England at 17. A hamstring setback delayed his season, but his explosiveness positions him as a future Brazil’s number nine heir.
As the Premier League season unfolds, these battles will shape Brazil’s attack. Goals scored at Anfield or the Etihad could tip the scales for the 2026 showpiece. The scramble intensifies—who will claim Brazil’s number nine and reignite the Seleção’s glory?
