Latest Selecao call ups and analysis
Brazil and Argentina are set to go head to head on the 19th of November in an International friendly. Owing much to the fiery rivalry these two sides have, this fixture will be anything but a friendly. The winner of the game will have South American
boasting rights until the sides meet again sometime in the future.
Brazil coach Mano Menezes announced the list of players who have been called up for International duty. Arguably, the biggest talking point of the 23-man squad will be the call up for Ronaldinho. The former Barcelona star has been in International exile
ever since he appeared for the Selecao in April of 2009. Carlos Dunga – then Brazil coach, refused to call up the former Barcelona ace citing various reasons. Despite Ronaldinho having a hugely successful season with AC Milan, Dunga refused to budge and Selecao
went to South Africa without the Milan number 80 in their ranks.
Ronaldinho has already turned 30 and his fitness is questionable. Sadly, Ronaldinho does not have another World cup left in him. The most Ronaldinho can go is make appearances in the upcoming Copa America.
We will now analyse the other called up players starting from the keepers
Goalkeepers
Menezes has decided against calling up Julio Cesar of Inter Milan. Despite his absence in the list, he remains the undoubted number one for Brazil. The Nerazzuri custodian has been left out to give other youngsters a chance in the non-competitive fixture.
Victor, Jeferson and Neto are all relative unknowns and the best performer will be appointed the third choice goalkeeper of Brazil.
Defence
Lucio has been left out of the squad once more. The veteran will take a much deserved rest following some truly world class performances for Inter. Manchester United’s right back Rafael has been called up. The youngster might be given the debut on International
level. Chelsea centre back Alex will return to national setup for the first time since 2007/08 season.
Midfield
Corinthians’ 25 year old midfielder Elias Mendes Trindade will make his debut in the midfield while his club mate Jucilei will look to add further to his sole International cap. Menezes has not called up Felipe Melo despite his excellent start to the season.
Instead, lucas will play the holding midfielder role for the Selecao. For all his workrate, Lucas lacks the quality to become a world class player .If Menezes is thinking of deploying the Liverpool midfielder in a holding role with Selecao, the Brazil team
is all but doomed. The most surprising ommision will be that of Lazio's Hernanes. Aquile playmaker has been the best midfielder in Serie A without a doubt. Menezes must have a good reason for ommiting the player as he is the future of Selecao midfield
Attack
In attack, Santos sensation Neymar will continue his fledging International career with yet another appearance. Robinho and Pato are also called up to the squad while Dynamo Kiev youngster Andre will look to gain some much coveted International experience.
The entire squad the has been called up is listed below
Goalkeepers: Victor (Gremio), Neto (Atletico-PR), Jeferson (Botafogo)
Defenders: David Luiz (Benfica), Alex Costa (Chelsea), Rever (Atletico-MG) Daniel Alves (Barcelona), Rafael (Manchester United), Andre Santos (Fenerbahce), Thiago Silva (Milan), Adriano Correa (Barcelona)
Midfielders: Douglas (Gremio), Philippe Coutinho (Inter), Lucas (Liverpool), Ramires (Chelsea), Elias (Corinthians), Sandro (Tottenham), Jucilei (Corinthians), Ronaldinho Gaucho (Milan)
Forwards: Neymar (Santos), Robinho (Milan), Andre (Dinamo Kiev), Alexandre Pato (Milan)
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