Even though Alisson and Fabinho both have their places in Brazil’s World Cup squad nearly guaranteed, there’s another Liverpool player who fights for a spot.
Reds’ striker Roberto Firmino hasn’t played for the national team since the Copa America in 2021. He wasn’t called up for the Qatar qualifiers, and even when in the squad for the most recent friendlies, he was not brought to the pitch.
The 31-year-old, however, has been doing well for Liverpool this season, Despite the ups and downs Jurgen Klopp’s side have been having, the Brazilian has eight goals and four assists so far.
So as Globo Esporte features an interview with Fabinho, the chat was about Firmino’s chances of making it to the World Cup squad. The midfielder sent huge compliments to his teammate, claiming he deserves to be in the tournament.
“Firmino has been in an excellent moment since the season started, he’s been important for us,” Fabinho told Globo Esporte.
“He’s been important for Darwin too, who’s just arrived, he’s in the same position, he’s learning from Firmino. He went to the last call-up, I’m happy he was called up again, he did well in training. At this moment, everyone is expecting to have his name mentioned by Tite, to be on the Qatar list, for him it’s no different. He’s already had the World Cup experience, he’s scored a goal in the World Cup, that’s one of the most special things a player should have.
“He helps me a lot because of the position he plays and the position I play. The rapport I have with him is very good, a guy who when I have the ball I don’t even need to look to pass to him because I already know where he’s going to be, he plays a role that few players do. It won’t be a surprise to anyone if I say I’m rooting for him to go to the World Cup, he’s someone I know, besides a great player, he’s a friend of mine.”
Brazil’s final list for the World Cup will be made official on Monday. The attacking position is undoubtedly the one with biggest competition, as that includes the likes of Neymar, Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, Richarlison, Raphinha, Antony, Gabriel Jesus and others.
According to Globo Esporte, Tite and his assistant Matheus Bachi watched the Champions League clash between Liverpool and Napoli on Tuesday evening.
