When talking about Brazil’s most important players, the likes of Thiago Silva, Casemeiro, Neymar and Vinicius comes to mind but when you take a deep look at the Selecao squad, they are dispensable.
Thiago Silva could be replaced by Eder Militao or Gleison Bremmer, Fabinho can come in for Casemeiro, Anthony for Neymar, Rodrygo for Vinicius and that is the same for every other player in the squad.
The only area in Brazil that lacks real depth is in the central forward position and that is why Richarlison is key to Tite’s setup.
I know Gabriel Jesus can lead the line but he spends so much time in the build-up than being in a position to score a goal. He has one goal in his last 10 appearances for Brazil.
Flamengo striker, Pedro can fill the void of Richarlison but he has just two caps for Brazil.
What I am saying in essence is that Richarlison brings to the table what no one in the squad does.
It is the presence of a real threat in the 18-yard box. His first goal against Serbia is a testament to this. He positioned himself to be available for a tap-in after the goalkeeper pushed Vinicius’ shot away.
It is no coincidence that Richarlison has 8 goals in his last 10 appearances for Brazil which is the most scored by anyone in that period.
When you have players like Neymar, Vinicius, Anthony, and Martinelli who likes to take on players and create chances, you need someone to put the chances created in the back of the net.
No one does this as well as Richarlison. All other forwards would prefer to play out wide than be stuck in the middle fighting between center-backs.
Every team needs that person who will always be available to pounce on any opportunity in the opposition’s box. It is the reason Manchester City and Liverpool have to spend a fortune on a striker in the last transfer window.
Richarlison is not Brazil’s best player or the most talented player but he is the most important piece in Tite’s jigsaw. Keeping him fit and firing would be key for Brazil at the World cup.
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