Why Casemiro and Alisson could be excluded from playing for Brazil as shocking idea proposed
Vinicius Junior, Endrick and Rodrygo are also facing the very real prospect of being excluded from the Brazilian national team amid talk of a bold new proposal
Casemiro, Alisson and their Brazilian compatriots playing in Europe could be EXCLUDED from representing the national team if a bold new proposal is introduced.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has sparked controversy by suggesting that the national team should only call up players based in Brazil. If implemented, it would mean the likes of Real Madrid duo Vinicius Junior and Endrick as well as Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson and Manchester United midfielder Casemiro would be unavailable for selection.
In a recent interview, Lula stated that "there are no stars" outside Brazil and that the players competing domestically are every bit as talented as the superstars playing in England, Spain, and elsewhere. He claimed that, currently, there is no modern-day equivalent of "Garrincha or Romario" playing abroad, but rather just "a bunch of young players who are not yet stars."
He said: "In Brazil, there are good players of the same quality (as those abroad). So [the national team should] give opportunities to those who are here."
His statement came after two players playing for Brazilian club Botafogo, Luiz Henrique and Igor Jesus, scored the goals in Brazil's 2-1 victory over Chile on Friday. According to reports, Lula recently met with the president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) to discuss his proposal, believing it could help showcase domestic talent.
However, it would have severe ramifications for the Brazil national team set-up. Just six members of the current 23-man squad play club football in Brazil, and those players have just 34 caps between them.
Lula is a big football fan and a lifelong supporter of Corinthians. He's no stranger to commenting on the sport and has been critical of the national team's performances in the past.
Brazil, managed by Dorival Junior, are currently fourth in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying table, having won just four of their opening nine matches. The top six teams will automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup, while the seventh-placed side will enter into an inter-confederation play-off.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
Related
Share this page
Guest Posts by Easy Branches
