Qatar 2022: Martinelli in for Brazil; Firmino out

Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli is the surprise selection in Brazil’s 26-man squad for this month’s FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, www.aclsports.com reports.

There have been widespread speculations in the global media on Monday that the Martinelli would not make the cut when head coach Tité reveals his final roster for the mundial but he has been rewarded for his good form with the Gunners this term with a place on the plane to Qatar.

Martinelli his namesake and club mate Gabriel Jesus in attack for the Seleçao but Liverpool star Firmino was overlooked by the Brazil national team head coach who keeps faith with injured Tottenham star Richarlison.

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson is expected to remain as first choice ahead of Manchester City’s Ederson while ageless defender Dani Alves also made the cut but there was no place for Arsenal centre back Gabriel Maghales.

Newcastle United’s impressive midfielder Bruno Guimarâes is among the listed midfield players alongside Manchester United’s duo Casemiro, Fred and Liverpool’s Fabinho.

International superstar Neymar will continue to carry the nation’s burden on his shoulder but there are also spots for Real Madrid enterprising duo Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes.

It’s been 20 years now since Brazil last won the Mundial and will fancy their chances of landing a sixth title in the gulf nation of Qatar starting from the 20th of this month.

Brazil are in Group G alongside the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, Switzerland and Serbia. The South Americans will face Serbia in their opening group game at the Lusail Iconic Stadium, Lusail on November 24.

Brazil’s 26-man squad

Goalkeepers

Alisson
Ederson
Weverton

Defenders

Dani Alves
Danilo
Alex Sandro
Alex Telles
Bremer
Marquinhos
Eder Militao
Thiago Silva

Midfielders

Casemiro
Fabinho
Fred
Bruno Guimarâes
Everton Ribeiro
Lucas Paqueta

Attackers

Neymar Jnr
Vinicius Jnr
Richarlison
Raphinha
Antony
Gabriel Martinelli
Gabriel Jesus
Rodrygo Goes
Pedro