Brazil has released its roster for the 2022 World Cup, which includes 39-year-old defender Dani Alves and nine forwards.
The Seleção are one of the tournament favorites, and the sheer quality of players both on and off the roster is testament to their strength.
Nine forwards are included in a high-powered group including Neymar, Vinicius Jr, Gabriel Jesus and Antony, among others.
But there was not room for the likes of longtime Liverpool star Roberto Firmino, as well as Atlético Madrid forward Matheus Cunha.
In defense, Brazil brought along 38-year-old Thiago Silva and Dani Alves, with Roma’s Roger Ibañez and Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhães missing out.
Alves was a particularly notable choice, with the veteran right back having moved to Mexican side Pumas over the summer, where he’s made 12 appearances.
Brazil coach Tite acknowledged that many observers questioned the selection of Alves, but said he wasn’t concerned about pleasing everyone.
“He is one of the captains of the team,” Tite said at a news conference.
“I didn’t come here to please people on Twitter, which I don’t even know what percentage of the Brazilian people they represent. I respect differing opinions and I’m not here to convince everyone.”
Brazil has been drawn into Group G alongside Cameroon, Serbia and Switzerland.
Brazil World Cup roster
Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Ederson (Manchester City), Weverton (Palmeiras).
Defenders: Bremer (Juventus), Eder Militao (Real Madrid) Marquinhos (PSG), Thiago Silva (Chelsea), Danilo (Juventus), Daniel Alves (Pumas), Alex Sandro (Juventus), Alex Telles (Sevilla).
Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Everton Ribeiro (Flamengo), Fabinho (Liverpool), Fred (Manchester United), Lucas Paqueta (West Ham).
Forwards: Antony (Manchester United), Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Neymar Jr (Paris Saint-Germain), Pedro (Flamengo), Raphinha (Barcelona), Richarlison (Tottenham), Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid)
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