Author: Vishwajit Sawant
In a surprising turn of events, Brazil coach Fernando Diniz has made two last-minute changes to his team for the upcoming South American qualifiers. Vanderson, from Monaco, and Renan Lodi, from Olympique de Marseille, were replaced by Yan Couto, from Girona, and Carlos Augusto, from Inter Milan, respectively.
This is the first call-up for 21-year-old right-back Yan Couto, developed by Coritiba, and 24-year-old left-back Carlos Augusto. The decision to bring them into the squad was the result of discussions between the national team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, and their respective clubs.
Diniz had already faced setbacks due to injuries, losing two players previously. Caio Henrique, Monaco’s left-back, had to be replaced by Guilherme Arana, while Raphinha, Barcelona’s striker, made way for David Neres.
Despite these changes, Brazil are currently leading the South American qualifiers after two rounds. Their next games include a clash against Venezuela at the Panatanal Arena on October 12, followed by a visit to Montevideo to face Uruguay on October 17. The players are expected to start preparing for Fernando Diniz’s team from the 7th.
Here is the updated list of players called up by Diniz:
- Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Manchester City) and Lucas Perri (Botafogo)
- Full-backs: Danilo (Juventus), Yan Couto (Girona), Guilherme Arana (Atlético-MG), Carlos Augusto (Inter Milan)
- Defenders: Bremer (Juventus), Marquinhos (PSG), Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal) and Nino (Fluminense)
- Midfielders: André (Fluminense), Casemiro (Manchester United), Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle), Gerson (Flamengo) and Raphael Veiga (Palmeiras)
- Strikers: Neymar (Al-Hilal), Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid), Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal), Richarlison (Tottenham), David Neres (Benfica) and Matheus Cunha (Wolverhampton).