AFC Bournemouth forward Rayan is embracing his first opportunity with the Brazil national football team while already setting his sights on an even bigger objective.
At just 19, the former Vasco da Gama attacker is part of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the March friendlies. However, his focus goes beyond these matches. Rayan is aiming to impress enough to secure a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad, which will be announced in less than two months.
Speaking in Orlando, where Brazil are preparing to face France national football team and Croatia national football team, the youngster acknowledged the scale of the challenge ahead.
“We know there is a lot of competition, especially in the Brazil national team, which has more titles than any other country,” he said.
“It’s about doing my job, working hard. I hope to be called up for the World Cup and to stay here.”
Bournemouth project and future ambition
The forward also spoke about his development at Bournemouth and how the move has shaped his short-term and long-term ambitions.
“Bournemouth presented a very important project for me. Since I arrived, I have been very happy,” he said. He already showed gratitude for the club in another recent interview.
“In five years, I see myself still playing in Europe, either at Bournemouth or at a club that signs me. I want to be at one of the most powerful clubs in the world.”
There will be no shortage of suitors, as some ‘elite’ clubs from all around Europe looks to be already circling.
Rayan added that adapting to English football has required adjustments, especially physically.
“The Premier League is very physical. I adapted quickly, but moving from the heat of Rio to the cold was not easy,” he admitted. “There are many strong teams and no easy games.”
He also pointed to familiar faces who helped his transition, including Chelsea’s Andrey Santos and Evanilson, as well as the support from inside the club.
Defining his game and strengths
Rayan also outlined what he believes separates him from other attacking options available to Ancelotti.
“I am a player with mobility. No matter the role, I have a lot of movement in my game,” he explained.
“I hope to show that with the national team as well. I have strong heading ability and can shoot from distance. There is a lot of competition in attack, but I will keep working and things will go well.”
That profile aligns with what Bournemouth have already seen in the Premier League. Since arriving in January, Rayan has played eight matches, starting seven, and has contributed two goals and one assist.
His pace, physical presence and willingness to attack space have made him a constant threat in England. That early impact played a key role in earning this first senior call-up.
Managing workload and staying grounded
Rayan was partially rested during Brazil’s first training session in the United States, although he dismissed any concerns.
“It was just physical work and load management. I am fine, calm, everything is okay,” he explained.
Despite his rapid rise, the attacker remains closely connected to Vasco, the club where he developed.
“I have a lot of affection for them and they have for me,” he said. “Since I joined Bournemouth, they gained more than 30,000 followers, most of them Vasco fans. I have great affection for the club that developed me and introduced me to football.”
Reaction from fans and growing profile
Rayan also highlighted the strong support he has received from Brazil supporters during this period.
“I received many messages on social media and I feel very honoured,” he said. ” I hope to bring them joy.”
The increase in attention has not been limited to Brazil. His arrival at Bournemouth and subsequent call-up have already had a measurable impact, with the club seeing a surge in followers linked to his growing popularity.
But Rayan’s focus is now clear. Perform well in training, take any opportunity in the friendlies, and push for a place in Brazil’s World Cup squad.
For Bournemouth, this is another sign of how quickly their young forward is progressing. He is already competing at international level and openly targeting a place among the elite in the near future.
🇧🇷 Rayan | Manchester United and Arsenal pushed forward
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— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) March 24, 2026