South America's national teams are entering a new post-FIFA World Cup cycle, but the road ahead remains unclear. A Copa América is scheduled for 2028, likely in the United States, while the 2030 World Cup qualifiers may adopt a Nations League format. Amid the uncertainty, one certainty is change for the sacred No. 10 shirt.

For Brazil, elimination by Norway at the 2026 World Cup has ended the Neymar era. Coach Carlo Ancelotti took responsibility for the defeat, admitting Neymar's introduction destabilized the team, and has made clear Neymar is no longer in the mix. The obvious replacement is João Pedro of Chelsea, who was recalled after being excluded from the World Cup squad, though an injury will delay his return until November.

Ancelotti sees the No. 10 issue as psychological, with players needing to take responsibility. Vinícius Júnior is ready after a strong World Cup, but Ancelotti's main task is to unlock Raphinha's potential. The coach identified midfield as Brazil's weak point and will focus on developing youngsters like Gabriel Bontempo, Breno Bidon, and Martinelli.