Dani Alves recalled to Brazil’s squad for upcoming World Cup 2022 qualifiers which could pave way for Copa America return this summer… two years after 38-year-old was named best player at the tournament
- Dani Alves has been named in Brazil’s squad for two World Cup qualifiers in June
- The 38-year-old has not been picked for his national side since October 2019
- Alves has been rewarded for impressive form playing domestically for Sao Paulo
- Recall could lead to veteran being selected for Copa America later this summer
Dani Alves has earned a sensational recall to the Brazilian national side for their upcoming World Cup 2022 qualifying matches.
The 38-year-old last played for Brazil back in October 2019, and was awarded the Golden Ball Award for the best player in the Copa America earlier that year.
He has been named in the latest squad for qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay at the start of June, with his country currently sitting top of the standings after winning their first four matches.
Dani Alves has been recalled to the Brazil squad for their upcoming World Cup 2022 qualifiers
The 38-year-old has been rewarded for his impressive form shown playing for Sao Paulo
Head coach Tite believes Alves’ experience will be a huge benefit to the whole squad ahead of a big summer for the national side.
‘Alves is in a good moment and has a great history with the National Team,’ Tite said.
‘In qualifying matches for the World Cup there is no time for recovery and he is playing at his physical peak.
‘He has great leadership skills and that’s very good for the group.’
Head coach Tite believes Alves’ experience and leadership will benefit the squad significantly
Alves’ recall comes after impressing domestically for Sao Paulo, having joined the team in 2019 after his contract at PSG expired.
The Brazilian league’s season finished in February, with the veteran playing a key role as Sao Paulo finished fourth and just five points behind league winners Flamengo.
After those two World Cup qualifiers next month, Brazil’s attention will turn to defending their Copa America title they won two years ago on home soil, after the tournament was postponed last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Tite’s men face Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador and Peru in their group, with the top four going through to the quarter finals.
Brazil will be looking to defend their Copa America title when it gets underway this summer
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