Brazilian forward Rayan shines in 2026 World Cup and secures Euro move

Rayan Belo, a 19‑year‑old striker from Rio de Janeiro, rose from distributing election pamphlets to wearing Brazil's #26 shirt at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A product of Vasco da Gama’s academy, he debuted for the senior side at 16, became the club’s youngest ever player of the century, and helped Vasco reach the Copa do Brasil final in 2025.

In January 2026, English club Bournemouth signed Rayan for about €35 million, the biggest transfer in Vasco’s history. His impact in the Premier League was swift, earning a call‑up from Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti in March. During the World Cup, Rayan played a decisive role in the round‑of‑16 win over Japan, recovering the ball that led to the winning goal, and earlier set up the opening strike against Scotland. He has yet to taste defeat in 2026 across club and country competitions, compiling 21 appearances with 12 wins and nine draws.

Rayan’s high work rate was highlighted when he covered 10.4 km in Brazil’s 3‑2 victory over Japan, second only to midfielders in the squad. To manage the physical toll, Brazil rested him from a training session in Morris Town, New Jersey ahead of the quarter‑final against Norway.