Brazil manager Tite today released the list of players who’ll take part in the upcoming national team games, and Leeds United star Raphinha finally got a chance to be included in the squad.
With the winger’s great season with the Whites, the Brazilian media had already wondered if he should have featured in the Copa America in June. He was left out then, and now has the opportunity to prove himself.
Raphinha has now spoken about the feeling of being called up for the first time.
“I’m speechless to describe my happiness. I left Brazil very early and didn’t have the opportunity to play professionally in the country, but I never hid my desire to wear our national team’s jersey,” said Raphinha (via Globo Esporte).
“Anyone who follows me knows how hard I’ve been working and, today, my dream came true, as I was called up. I thank all the people who have always been by my side and each professional who has helped me during my career. I also thank all the clubs that I defended and that believed in my football. Without you, none of this would be possible.”
The player also pointed out how important it is to be performing well for Leeds, who start their season in a Premier League clash against Manchester United on Saturday.
“Now, I need to stay focused and work hard here at Leeds because the Premier League starts this weekend and we have big goals ahead.”
This squad will feature in Brazil’s next three World Cup Qualifiers fixtures. There are matches against Chile, Argentina and Peru, so those are pretty tough games for Raphinha to prove his worth.
Tite’s side currently have six wins in six matches, and currently lead the South American Qualifiers.
