Premier League star leaves World Cup reporters in hysterics with honest admission

Bournemouth star Rayan left reporters in fits of laughter ahead of Brazil’s World Cup round-of-32 clash against Japan.

The five-time winners topped Group C consisting of Morocco, Scotland and Haiti to book their spot in the knockout stage.

Getty

They take on an ever-improving Japan side in Houston on Monday with a post in the last-16 up for grabs.

And while Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti is no doubt doing his homework on their opponents ahead of the clash, it’s fair to say Rayan could sharpen up on his studies.

In a press conference on Friday, the winger was asked by a Japanese journalist who he thought was Japan’s best player?

And his honest answer left reporters in stitches.

No idea!

“Mate, I don’t know who their best player is,” he said with a tinge of embarrassment. “I’d have to watch the video to be able to tell you.”

In fairness, he wasn’t completely out of touch with the Japanese national team and went on to heap praise on them.

Rayan added: “We know that Japan are a very strong side and we’re working hard to give our best and beat them.”

The two nations crossed paths at the 2006 World Cup when Brazil eased past a Japan side managed by legendary Brazilian Zico with a 4-1 victory.

But Japan were able to get the upper hand on Brazil last time out when they came from two goals down to win 3-2 in a friendly match last October. 

Rayan has already left his mark on the World Cup having become the first Brazilian teenager to start a World Cup match since Marco Antonio in 1970, when he was named in the starting XI for their win over Scotland.

Getty

His influence was quickly felt as he set up Vinicius Junior for Brazil’s opener thanks to his pressing and quick reactions.

Doing the dirty work

“Ancelotti talks to us a lot about our defensive duties. He says that marking starts with the forwards,” Rayan said. “Even when we’re tired, it’s our responsibility to press.

“I think I’ve improved a lot defensively. You have to defend first and then play. We know that any mistake now could be decisive.

“Japan are a very strong side. That makes us prepare even more thoroughly for a tough match and give our all.”

Rayan signed for Bournemouth from Brazilian side Vasco da Gama in January in a deal worth a reported £24.7million.

He quickly became a fan favourite at the Vitality Stadium, scoring five goals in 15 appearances, helping the club secure Europa League football next season.

Getty

His appearance in Wednesday’s victory over Scotland was just his fourth cap for Brazil after making his senior debut against Croatia in April.