Brazil team for the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: An analysis

According to recent reports, Neymar Jr, despite the return to the national squad is now ruled out from the high profile games for Brazil owing to his injury concerns. The player is now replaced by Real Madrid youngster Endrick, while Neymar shared his message with the fans. 

Taking social media platform to mention his unavailability to the national team, Neymar Jr posted: 

The return seemed so close, but unfortunately, I won't be able to wear the most important jersey in the world for the moment

We had long conversations and everyone knows of my desire to return, but we agreed that it's best not to take any risks and prepare as best as possible to completely eradicate the injury

The 33-year-old flamboyant winger had missed the games previously owing to lack of form and injuries but ever since he returned to Santos, the player was in fine touch, helping his national team in the Paulista until the team bowed out in the semifinals of the tournament. He was in Midas touch with every corner/free kick resulting in goal or goal-creating action. Following his form, Dorival had nominated the player to the national squad for the upcoming fixture against Colombia and Argentina. Neymar last featured for the national side in 2023 where he had played against Uruguay.

For the senior side, Neymar is 14 caps behind the all-time goal scorer, Cafu. Cafu has donned the national team jersey 142 times whereas Neymar has 128 caps to his name. He is also the joint-highest scorer for Brazil with 79 goals. The former Barcelona and Paris St Germain superstar would want to eclipse the record and become the top scorer of the national team. His replacement, Endrick has 13 caps to his name with three goals for the national team. 

How is Brazil's national team doing in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers? 

After 12 games in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Brazil find themselves in jeopardy as they are fifth on the points table. Brazil has only five wins in the campaign, and have lost four crucial games. In the last five games, they have two wins and two draws. With that, Brazil desperately needs to win a maximum number of points in their remaining six games of the competition to make it to the direct qualification of the upcoming FIFA World Cup which will be held in the United States of America, Mexico, and Canada.

What are the last-minute changes that have happened for Brazil? 

Dorival Junior has not only lost the services of Neymar Jr but also they have missed out on their prolific shot-stopper Ederson. Dorival has gone on to replace Lucas Perri, the shot-stopper who represents Lyon. Post the international break, Lucas Perri will be facing Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals. 

On the other hand, there is a casualty in defense as well. Brazil will not have the services of Danilo, who is now replaced by Alex Sandro, who has been instrumental in Flamingo’s campaign. 

Brazil team for the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: An analysis

Despite the injury concerns, Brazil has put up a strong side for the upcoming qualifiers with multiple players returning to the squad from injury. In front of sticks, Brazil has in-form Alisson Becker and Lucas Perri who have been instrumental in their team's respective campaigns. 

On the other hand, Brazil has always been known for its flamboyant attack and flair in the same. The tradition continues in the current lineup as well with a perfect trifecta of Raphinha, Pedro, and Vinicius Junior being in red-hot form for their respective clubs. Savinho and Estevao are also not left behind as they are tantalizing options for the gaffer. 

In the midfield, Guimares and Cunha are attracting the attention of Europe with their terrific display. Joelinton, Andre, and Gerson will be rotated based on the games but the midfield looks to complement the attack that the side has. 

The Brazilian defense looks weaker compared to their attacking prowess. While Gabriel, Vanderson, and Maquinhos continue to remain the mainstay in the defense, the porous nature of defense can come back haunting considering the lack of leadership amongst the defenders. It remains interesting to see how the Brazilian national team coach, Dorival Junior, addresses the issue.

Announced Brazil Squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qualifiers:

Goalkeepers: Alisson, Lucas Perri, Bento

Defenders: Vanderson, Wesley, Guilherme Arana, Gabriel, Alex Sandro,  Léo Ortiz, Marquinhos,  Murillo

Midfielders: André, Bruno Guimarães, Gerson, Joelinton, Matheus Cunha, Endrick

Forwards: Estêvao, João Pedro, Raphinha, Rodrygo, Savinho, Vinícius Júnior