Brazil name Chelsea’s 18-year-old wonderkid Andrey Santos in their latest squad along with Emerson Royal and Wolves’ Joao Gomes… but there is NO space for Arsenal pair Gabriel and Martinelli
Chelsea starlet Andrey Santos, 18, is the shock name in Brazil’s latest squad after being called up to the senior team as one of nine uncapped players.
Tottenham defender Emerson Royal and Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes are also named in the 23-man list.
But Arsenal duo Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli have missed out despite starring for the Premier League leaders.
Ramon Menezes, the Under-20 manager for the South American country, has stepped in for the senior side on an interim basis after Tite’s resignation following their quarter-final exit at the 2022 World Cup.
And Menezes has sprung several surprises – relying heavily on youth and Brazil-based players rather than more stellar names in an experimental selection.
Chelsea wonderkid Andrey Santos has been called up to the Brazil squad at the age of just 18
Santos captained Selecao’s Under-20 side to a South American Championship win last month
And his performances have been rewarded by the country’s interim manager Ramon Menezes
Santos signed for the Blues in January for £18million from Vasco da Gama after making his professional debut as a 16-year-old.
However, he was sent back out on loan to his former club after failing to get a work permit.
He captained the U20 team to South American Championship glory last month.
Santos scored in the final against Uruguay and finishing as the tournament’s joint top scorer with six.
Liverpool’s world-class goalkeeper Alisson is left out, with Athletico Paranaense 18-year-old Mycael preferred.
Arthur, 19, replaces Juventus’ experienced right back Danilo.
Zenit St Petersburg centre half Robert Renan, also 19, is named ahead of the likes of Felipe, Gleison Breimer, and…