Bruno Guimaraes maintains that Brazil should be afforded the 'respect they merit' heading into the World Cup

Brazil, the Selecao, secured their fifth and most recent title back in 2002, and since that time, they have been eliminated in the quarter finals on four occasions across the last five World Cups.

This year, Brazil enter the tournament in North America ranked sixth globally and are perhaps missing the sort of standout superstar figures that have distinguished them historically.

"No other nation bears five stars on their shirt. We boast excellent players plying their trade at elite clubs, including Vini and Raphinha. We must afford our players the respect they merit." Newcastle United's midfielder Guimaraes made these remarks to journalists at the Brazilian squad's camp in New Jersey.

Carlo Ancelotti's team, who ended the 10 team South American qualifying group in fifth place, trailing leaders Argentina by 10 points, start their World Cup campaign against Morocco on Saturday at the MetLife Stadium, located just outside New York City.

They concluded their tournament preparations with consecutive friendly victories, thrashing Panama 6-2 in Rio de Janeiro and subsequently beating Egypt 2-1 in Cleveland, Ohio, on Saturday.

"We could not be in better spirits. We performed well and won both friendlies. There are a few more days to fine tune things, but we feel prepared." remarked Guimaraes, who netted Brazil's first goal against Egypt.

"As soon as the World Cup starts, everyone will disregard the past. Hopefully we can secure a win to begin with, which will provide a foundation to build upon."

Brazil are also set to face Haiti and Scotland in Group C, and they are waiting to ascertain whether Neymar can contribute in any capacity during the group stage matches.

The ex Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain striker, now aged 34, is currently plying his trade for Santos in his native Brazil and has not represented his country since 2023.

Nevertheless, Ancelotti took a risk by selecting Neymar in his squad, and the player has since been hampered by a calf issue.

Brazil have already been compelled to alter their squad, as Roma full back Wesley was ruled out of the tournament over the weekend because of a thigh injury.

Ederson, the 26 year old midfielder currently at Atalanta in Italy and anticipated to move to Manchester United following the World Cup, has taken his place.

"Competing in a World Cup represents the pinnacle of our careers as footballers. We wish Wesley a swift recovery." said Guimaraes.