Brazil is one of the big favorites at the World Cup in Qatar. PSG's selection of superstar Neymar is going full offensive in the tournament that starts in twelve days. National coach Tite calls up nine attackers and accepts the role of favorite with thanks.
Led by Paris Saint-Germain superstar Neymar, the Brazilian national team will go to the World Cup in Qatar. National coach Tite presented the 26-player squad of the five-time title holder on Monday in Rio de Janeiro.
With nine attackers, including young strikers like Vinicius Jr. and Real Madrid's Rodrygo, there is hope for an attacking Seleção. "We favor important players from midfield to attack but there's nothing like a balanced team," Tite said of his squad. "To win at a high level you have to create opportunities and score goals."
A big surprise was the nomination of 39-year-old veteran Dani Alves from Mexico City's UNAM Pumas. Alves left Barcelona in June 2022 and has since made 12 appearances for his new club. Ex-Bayern professional Philippe Coutinho from Aston Villa was left out as expected after his injury on Sunday.
Former Hoffenheim Bundesliga professional Roberto Firmino from Liverpool FC is also absent. Despite a good season so far for Klopp's Reds with six goals in 12 games, he was beaten by Arsenal duo Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli. Also in attendance is Tottenham's Richarlison, who cried out his joy at his nomination to the world.
But all the stars in attack will have to line up behind Neymar. The PSG forward, who once again carries the hopes of a whole country, has scored 75 goals in 121 international appearances so far. In Qatar he could catch up with the Seleção's record goalscorer, the legendary Pelé. He's still missing two goals.
Record world champions Brazil will meet Cameroon, Switzerland and Serbia in preliminary group G at the World Cup in Qatar from November 20th to December 18th. Switzerland and Serbia were also in Brazil's group at Russia 2018 when they lost to Belgium in the quarterfinals. In Qatar, too, Brazil is one of the big favorites for the title. A role that Tite gladly accepts. He said: "Three or four teams are always at the highest level. Everyone assumes that Brazil is among the favourites. I see it that way too. We belong to them."
On November 14, Tite will gather his players at the Juventus training ground before leaving for Doha five days later. The 61-year-old Tite is going into his last tournament as national coach. He has already announced his resignation.
