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Players are human beings and social media comments reach us. But the focus has to be on the pitch | Rodrygo
Playing in a World Cup is a huge experience; when you’re with the national team, your entire focus is on the squad’s schedule – the hotel, the training centre, the stadium – basically, everything revolves around the matches. I lived that routine daily at the 2022 World Cup and realised the immense dedication the tournament demands. In this 2026 edition, as fate would have it and as I am still recovering from my injury, I’m discovering a different side of the World Cup: a World Cup of reunions, with countless events happening simultaneously across the cities and countries, creating opportunities for conversations and extraordinary experiences. Over the course of two afternoons in New York I ran into true legends, icons, and friends I’ve made through football. They were precious moments where I could listen, exchange ideas and receive support from stars such as Marcelo, Kaká, Paul Pogba and Zinedine Zidane. What started as a scheduled appearance for a shared sponsor turned into a casual, friendly chat from different generations united by the passion football ignites. We were right there, close to the fans. Five guys representing Brazil and France, greeted by hundreds of fans from all over the globe, all hoping for a brief moment of proximity, a photo, or a wave. And yes, I have idols too; I managed to get an autographed shirt from Zidane, my former coach and a giant in the history of the sport. Sharing that space in the centre of the event arena next to the Brooklyn Bridge, we talked about past experiences, the energy that spreads everywhere during the World Cup, and, of course, the matches that had already taken place. Naturally, everyone expects the best from the Brazilian national team, and in football “the best” means victory. But it is important to remember the opening draw against Morocco was the first step on the journey; Brazil fell behind in the game and securing a draw was important for the road ahead. The World Cup presents challenges unlike any other competition. Scenarios shift constantly, and almost nothing is set in stone. If things don’t go as planned in the first game, it doesn’t mean the rest will follow the same pattern. By the same token, a big win does not guarantee the next match will be any easier or that performance levels will remain consistent. It is a sprint-paced marathon with stages that feel independent of one another, creating opportunities for change throughout the journey that makes up the whole. There are eight decisive matches on the road to the title and, in the group stage, not every setback means that you are going home. A single team can be several different versions of itself over the course of the tournament – and that is one of the factors that makes the World Cup incomparable. When we are on the pitch for a World Cup match, our eyes and minds have one undisputed priority: to perform our best. We have done everything possible to arrive in the best possible physical, technical, tactical, and mental shape. Everyone there defends the team and the country with everything they can. Before and after matches, opponents are fellow professionals and friends. But once the game kicks off, everyone focuses on their job and gives their all to help the Seleção advance. You can’t predict the result, but you can guarantee dedication and the right attitude by leaving everything on the pitch. The pressure of wearing the Brazil shirt can be heavy but also creates a positive kind of responsibility. That pressure exists solely because of the greatness of our football, the titles we’ve won, and our historic standing in the sport. The fans’ mood often hinges on the result, which is only natural in a country so used to winning regularly. So, as a player you have to realise that a barrage of criticism isn’t the end of the world, just as a massive wave of praise doesn’t mean everything is sorted out and that you will win the tournament. It is crucial to distinguish facts and balanced analysis from comments born of raw emotion and frustration. Players aren’t immune to what is said on social media. I believe in using a filter: a process of separating what is relevant, what deserves a response or consideration from what is simply garbage, intended to cause hurt and completely detached from reality. A World Cup player’s daily routine involves dedicating a vast amount of time to the profession. Yet, the player is a human being who communicates – even if only online – with friends, family, professional contacts and fellow players. Consequently, social media comments can easily reach them through any of these channels. Among the messages received, there may be content intended to cause distress or trigger stress. A football player is a human being who can be affected by such photos, videos or comments – just like anyone else. We do not go out of our way to seek them out or read them; most players do not actively look for comments and have a support team that handles the filtering process. At times, though, the sheer volume means some of it reaches us. Then the focus must remain on performance on the pitch. It is up to us to ensure that our on-field performance is what truly speaks loudest.

Players are human beings and social media comments reach us. But the focus has to be on the pitch | Rodrygo
Playing in a World Cup is a huge experience; when you’re with the national team, your entire focus is on the squad’s schedule – the hotel, the training centre, the stadium – basically, everything revolves around the matches. I lived that routine daily at the 2022 World Cup and realised the immense dedication the tournament demands. In this 2026 edition, as fate would have it and as I am still recovering from my injury, I’m discovering a different side of the World Cup: a World Cup of reunions, with countless events happening simultaneously across the cities and countries, creating opportunities for conversations and extraordinary experiences. Over the course of two afternoons in New York I ran into true legends, icons, and friends I’ve made through football. They were precious moments where I could listen, exchange ideas and receive support from stars such as Marcelo, Kaká, Paul Pogba and Zinedine Zidane. What started as a scheduled appearance for a shared sponsor turned into a casual, friendly chat from different generations united by the passion football ignites. We were right there, close to the fans. Five guys representing Brazil and France, greeted by hundreds of fans from all over the globe, all hoping for a brief moment of proximity, a photo, or a wave. And yes, I have idols too; I managed to get an autographed shirt from Zidane, my former coach and a giant in the history of the sport. Sharing that space in the centre of the event arena next to the Brooklyn Bridge, we talked about past experiences, the energy that spreads everywhere during the World Cup, and, of course, the matches that had already taken place. Naturally, everyone expects the best from the Brazilian national team, and in football “the best” means victory. But it is important to remember the opening draw against Morocco was the first step on the journey; Brazil fell behind in the game and securing a draw was important for the road ahead. The World Cup presents challenges unlike any other competition. Scenarios shift constantly, and almost nothing is set in stone. If things don’t go as planned in the first game, it doesn’t mean the rest will follow the same pattern. By the same token, a big win does not guarantee the next match will be any easier or that performance levels will remain consistent. It is a sprint-paced marathon with stages that feel independent of one another, creating opportunities for change throughout the journey that makes up the whole. There are eight decisive matches on the road to the title and, in the group stage, not every setback means that you are going home. A single team can be several different versions of itself over the course of the tournament – and that is one of the factors that makes the World Cup incomparable. When we are on the pitch for a World Cup match, our eyes and minds have one undisputed priority: to perform our best. We have done everything possible to arrive in the best possible physical, technical, tactical, and mental shape. Everyone there defends the team and the country with everything they can. Before and after matches, opponents are fellow professionals and friends. But once the game kicks off, everyone focuses on their job and gives their all to help the Seleção advance. You can’t predict the result, but you can guarantee dedication and the right attitude by leaving everything on the pitch. The pressure of wearing the Brazil shirt can be heavy but also creates a positive kind of responsibility. That pressure exists solely because of the greatness of our football, the titles we’ve won, and our historic standing in the sport. The fans’ mood often hinges on the result, which is only natural in a country so used to winning regularly. So, as a player you have to realise that a barrage of criticism isn’t the end of the world, just as a massive wave of praise doesn’t mean everything is sorted out and that you will win the tournament. It is crucial to distinguish facts and balanced analysis from comments born of raw emotion and frustration. Players aren’t immune to what is said on social media. I believe in using a filter: a process of separating what is relevant, what deserves a response or consideration from what is simply garbage, intended to cause hurt and completely detached from reality. A World Cup player’s daily routine involves dedicating a vast amount of time to the profession. Yet, the player is a human being who communicates – even if only online – with friends, family, professional contacts and fellow players. Consequently, social media comments can easily reach them through any of these channels. Among the messages received, there may be content intended to cause distress or trigger stress. A football player is a human being who can be affected by such photos, videos or comments – just like anyone else. We do not go out of our way to seek them out or read them; most players do not actively look for comments and have a support team that handles the filtering process. At times, though, the sheer volume means some of it reaches us. Then the focus must remain on performance on the pitch. It is up to us to ensure that our on-field performance is what truly speaks loudest.

Yan Diomande to Liverpool transfer threat emerges after talks held over £87m deal
Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly poised to enter the race against Liverpool for £87million-rated RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande after holding talks over a potential deal. Recent reports have suggested the Ivorian teenager has been firmly on the Reds' radar, with Liverpool said to have tracked him extensively. However, it is understood that Leipzig's hefty asking price for the 19-year-old could deter Liverpool and other interested parties. Premier League rivals Manchester United , Arsenal , Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea are also thought to be circling, along with German champions Bayern Munich . Sky Sports Germany now report that PSG have thrown their hat into the ring , with the European giants' sporting director Luis Campos said to have 'entered the bidding war'. According to the report, a meeting between PSG and the player's representatives took place in recent days. Nevertheless, Liverpool are still considered the frontrunners to land the young talent. The Reds are in the market for a new first-team winger this summer, with Mohamed Salah set to depart after nine years on Merseyside. It has been suggested that Liverpool's pursuit of Diomande stems from those at Anfield having 'noticed' the necessity of bringing in a more skilful, rapid wide player capable of breaking down a deep-sitting defence. Other names in the frame include Yankuba Minteh, Bazoumana Toure, Francisco Conceicao, Anthony Gordon, Bradley Barcola and Rodrygo. Liverpool's reported interest in a different kind of attacker has previously been touched upon by Reds manager Arne Slot , who acknowledges that the Premier League landscape has shifted considerably. He said: "We are aware that football has changed in England. We will always try to have our own style, but we cannot shut our eyes for the new reality. FOLLOW OUR LIVERPOOL FB PAGE! Latest Reds news and more on our dedicated Facebook page "And that it's not only low blocks, it's also set-piece after set-piece after set-piece. One of the reasons why we haven't been successful in the first half of the season was mainly set-pieces. Yes, I'm fully involved in next season and we have these discussions as well. "How can we unlock a low block? Wingers are very important to unlock a low block, as we noticed last season with Mo and Luis Diaz. "Replacing Mo on a one-on-one is probably impossible. So we have to find a way of making it work that the team is stronger."

Yan Diomande to Liverpool transfer latest as new threat to £87m move emerges after talks held
Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly set to rival Liverpool for the £87million signing of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande after talks were held for his signature. Recent reports have claimed that Diomande is of interest at Anfield , having been extensively followed by the Reds. However, it is said that the Bundesliga side's asking price for the 19-year-old could put Liverpool and other suitors off. Premier League rivals Manchester United, Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea are also said to be interested alongside German champions Bayern Munich. Sky Sports Germany now claim that PSG are also keen on him . It is said that the European champion's sporting director, Luis Campos, has 'entered the bidding war'. The report claims that a meeting took place between PSG and the player's representatives in recent days. However, they add that Liverpool remain favourites to sign the young star. FOLLOW OUR LIVERPOOL FC FACEBOOK PAGE! All the latest news and analysis from Anfield on the Liverpool Echo's dedicated LFC Facebook page The Reds will need a new first-team winger this summer with Mohamed Salah to leave after nine years on Merseyside . It has been reported that interest in Diomande comes as those at Anfield have 'noticed' the need to sign a more tricky, pacey winger to unlock a deep defence. Other names linked include Yankuba Minteh, Bazoumana Toure, Francisco Conceicao, Anthony Gordon, Bradley Barcola and Rodrygo. Liverpool's reported focus on a different type of forward has previously been referenced by Reds boss Arne Slot who admits the Premier League has changed. He said: "We are aware that football has changed in England. We will always try to have our own style, but we cannot shut our eyes for the new reality. "And that it's not only low blocks, it's also set-piece after set-piece after set-piece. One of the reasons why we haven't been successful in the first half of the season was mainly set-pieces. Yes, I'm fully involved in next season and we have these discussions as well. "How can we unlock a low block? Wingers are very important to unlock a low block, as we noticed last season with Mo and Luis Diaz. "Replacing Mo on a one-on-one is probably impossible. So we have to find a way of making it work that the team is stronger."

Cole Palmer unhappy at Chelsea means Manchester United, Bayern Munich to pounce?
Football transfer news: Chelsea are struggling, and missing out on a Champions League slot could further alienate Cole Palmer

Cole Palmer unhappy at Chelsea means Manchester United, Bayern Munich to pounce?
Football transfer news: Chelsea are struggling, and missing out on a Champions League slot could further alienate Cole Palmer
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