Paqueta discusses Neymar's return & Raphinha's absence ahead of Scotland clash

He started by talking about his relationship with Vinicius Junior.

"Vinicius and I have had a wonderful friendship for many years," said the midfielder. "I met him when he was still very young and we've built this bond since our days at Flamengo.

"We're very happy to be together, both with the national team and when we support each other from afar.

He's someone I admire a lot and have enormous respect for. Sharing another World Cup together here with the national team is really something special for both of us."

Given the significant absence of Raphinha, Paqueta could be used in a different position in the match against Scotland. and has no issue with that.

"I'm always ready to help the team and give my best. Luckily, I don't have to answer that question, because it's up to the coach to decide. He's the one who makes the choices," he said.

On his role in the team, he added: "For most of my career, I have played as a midfielder, contributing both defensively and in building up play. The coach always asks me to express my natural qualities.

"He gives me a lot of freedom with the ball and wants me to be involved in the play. Of course, without the ball, I also have to fulfil my defensive duties. It's a role I feel very comfortable in because it's something I've always done."

'Very important' Neymar a welcome return

He then spoke about their next opponents, Scotland: "Not just Scotland, but all the teams at the World Cup deserve respect. You have to study them and prepare as best as possible to face them. We have great respect for our opponent, but we also know we need to play our game and follow what the coach asks of us. Regardless of the opponent, our goal in every match is to win."

The big news is Neymar's return to training with the team: "We're all very happy to see him training and back on the pitch with us. Neymar is a very important player for the Brazilian national team. He has an extraordinary history with this shirt, and he can still help us a lot.

"We're glad he's back and we hope he'll be available as soon as possible to contribute to the team."

Finally, he addressed the topic of the constant changes in the lineup that could affect the team's identity, which now has to adapt to Raphinha's absence: "We're all sorry, especially for Raphinha, who has had this minor setback with his injury.

"Right now he has the support of the whole group. We're by his side and we'll do everything we can to help him during his recovery. He's a guy who works really hard and I'm sure he'll do everything possible to come back as soon as he can.

"As for his importance, there's not much more to add. He's coming off some extraordinary seasons and has grown a lot with the national team as well.

"When such an important player is out, the team needs to reorganise quickly, but the coach has chosen a squad of 26 quality players and I'm sure whoever takes his place will do a great job."

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