Scotland vs Brazil presents a fresh opportunity for Brazil’s next generation of superstars to develop even more. The spotlights will be on Neymar, David Luiz, Ganso, Ramires and Lucas.
Gone are the days where Ronaldinho, Kaka, Robinho and Ronaldo were the driving forces behind Brazil’s machine gun. Ronaldo has retired whereas the international career of Ronaldinho, Kaka and Robinho is mysteriously becoming a story of the past – although these three players are yet to draw a line between their football for Brazil and retirement.

Call-ups have been rare in recent times for the players that used to be regular faces in Brazil’s senior national team. After the country’s unconvincing showing during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, the cry for new blood in the Brazilian team grew up louder. The Canarinho feel they can’t waste more time leaning on the big names only, when new talent is being produced in the country every year.

Coach Mano Menezes is looking to create the perfect blend of youth and experience with the inclusion of players such as Neymar and David Luiz teaming up with veterans like Julio Cesar, Maicon and Lucio. In a few years’ time, today’s youngsters are those who will lead the way as Brazil’s regeneration of success continues.

After seeing the promising Alexandre Pato stumble against his many obstacles (mainly caused by injuries), other talents have been identified as Brazil’s next superstars. Living legend Ronaldo made excellent picks as he spoke to Sky Sports 24 on Wednesday:

“I think that you have to focus on Neymar and Ganso and Lucas [when you talk Brazil’s current potential]: they are three great players and they represent the future of the Verde-Amarela.

“Now, if I have to choose just one player among this trio, I’d pick Neymar. He scores a lot of goals and he is only 18 years old.

“Lucas is someone who plays a more liberated game and he is extremely quick. But, Ganso? He is a one-off talent who excels at playing a more withdrawn role.”

In addition to Santos’ sensational Neymar and Ganso as well as Sao Paulo’s Lucas, Brazil have two more emerging superstars in the name of David Luiz and Ramires. The Chelsea duo certainly has so much more to offer to honour Brazil’s colours.

David Luiz, in particular, has the X Factor – that special thing that should see him grow stronger into an unbreakable rock in defence. The former Benfica chap incarnates a rejuvenated version of Spain’s Carles Puyol and he also possesses the goal instinct.

Both David Luiz and Ramires were on target for their club, Chelsea, last weekend as the Blues defeat Manchester City 2-0. Their confidence should be high ahead of Sunday’s Scotland vs Brazil international friendly match.

For all the young players that will be involved in this weekend’s action, more points will be gained in terms of experience. With the 2011 Copa America being just around the corner, Brazilian supporters are hoping that Neymar, Ganso and company develop strong muscles quickly.