Sao Paulo (AFP) - It has been 24 years since football powerhouse Brazil – the most successful nation in World Cup history – lifted the trophy, and forward Luiz Henrique told AFP the team must use that pressure as motivation when the tournament kicks off in June.

The winger, who plays for Russia’s Zenit, was a baby when five-time winner Brazil last won the World Cup in 2002.

He is one of head coach Carlo Ancelotti’s key attacking options for the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as Brazil grapples multiple injuries.

“Pressure is always a good thing. In football—and especially with the national team—pressure is ever-present. We have to channel that pressure into motivation,” Henrique, 25, told AFP in an interview from Saint Petersburg.

He said he “feels deeply” for defender Eder Militao and forward Estevao – who are both out with hamstring injuries – and Rodrygo who has suffered a severe knee injury.

“I’m going to wait for Ancelotti’s decision and see if he selects me. I want to play—to be in the starting eleven—and if he chooses me, I’ll do exactly what I’ve always done: give it my absolute best.”

The veteran Italian coach, appointed in May last year, has vowed to take Brazil back to the top.

Henrique said it was an honor working with “someone who has been a winner for so long.”

“He helps a footballer evolve and instills a sense of calm in the players, allowing us to showcase our best football.”

Ancelotti is expected to name his final World Cup squad on May 18.

Henrique said he would “love to play with Neymar”, who has not played for Brazil since 2023 due to a serious knee injury but still hopes to be called up this year.