With double digit goals this season, Tottenham Hotspur striker Richarlison has been the club's leading man, and it isn't even close. But far from necessarily being a huge accomplishment, Richy's status as the team's top forward and best scorer has been more of a sign of the times than anything else with the Lilywhites still mired in a tense relegation battle with rivals West Ham United amidst their worst ever season.
To wit, Richarlison was dreadful against Leeds, missing easy chances with a first touch that often went so far askew, fans were left wondering if Richy even realized what sport he was playing. Now, he has been very important to Tottenham this season and works his socks off, and he'll always be a likable guy.
But Richarlison is hoping that he can make the Brazil national team squad this summer. He told reporters, via Chris Cowlin, "Anxious, right? {on the possible call-up] I think I gave up a lot for that shirt. I’m doing my work here at Tottenham, I’m playing, I’m scoring my goals. I think I’ll be watching with expectation on TV. I’m confident. I believe I can be there. And if I am, I’ll do my best for the national team shirt, like I always have. Regardless of whether I’m there or not, I have brothers and teammates there. I’m very patriotic. I’ll always support Brazil."
Richarlison is not good enough for Brazil these days
While any confidence and self belief from an athlete is always appreciated, realistically, Richarlison hasn't earned being called up by Carlo Ancelotti to Brazil. Now, he does have experience as a starter both at Copa America and the last World Cup, where he even scored a banger of a bicycle kick goal - and he has been good for a few bangers this season with Tottenham Hotspur, too.
But a few great goals isn't what makes someone a national team striker. Richarlison is missing the quality, progression, creation, and consistency. He does not have a the traits of a top striker and can't really play as a true 9 or on the wings.
He doesn't fit the profile Carlo Ancelotti is looking for at Brazil, and there are nine forwards who merit consideration more than he does. Vinicius Junior and Raphinha are locks. Antony, Matheus Cunha, Endrick, Joao Pedro, Rayan, and Igor Thiago have all been better players this season. And if Brazil want experience and an X-Factor, it wouldn't make sense to go for Richy over his good friend Neymar.
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