Brazil President Wants Vinicius and Co. ‘Removed’ From the National Team

• Vinicius Junior and other European-based Brazilian stars could be 'axed' from the senior national team
• The brutal suggestion was made by none other than Brazil's president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva
• He wants the national team to pay more attention to players plying their trade in the country's domestic league

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has made a bold suggestion that could reshape the future of the Selecao.

Following Brazil's 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign against Chile, Lula da Silva proposed that players competing in Brazil’s domestic league should be given equal or premium consideration for national team selection.

Brazil's president wants Vinicius and co. axed

This idea follows the Selecao's recovery from a disappointing loss to Paraguay in the World Cup qualifiers last month.

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Brazil bounced back with a vital win over Chile despite conceding an early goal.

Thanks to efforts from Igor Jesus and Luis Henrique, the five-time world champions secured a crucial comeback victory, keeping their qualification hopes alive.

With key figures like Vinicius Jr. absent, Botafogo's Henrique and Jesus took centre stage, proving pivotal for coach Dorival Junior's squad.

The impressive performances of these local talents have led Lula to argue for greater inclusion of players from Brazil's league rather than relying on those who play in Europe.

Lula's suggestion means doom for Vinicius and co.

Should this shift in selection policy occur, it could spell significant changes for stars like Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, Raphinha, Eder Militao, and rising sensation Endrick, all of whom currently play in top European clubs.

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Lula recently met with the president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) to discuss this potential change.

According to beIN Sports, Lula urged the CBF to focus more on homegrown talent, emphasising the importance of showcasing local players.

He expressed his concerns, stating, as cited by Tribuna:

“There is currently no Garrincha or Romario playing in foreign teams, just a bunch of young players who are not yet stars."

He also advocated for giving local players more opportunities over those playing abroad.

“I have been advocating for the Brazilian national team to have players who play in the country for some time.

"The two players who scored yesterday are playing in the Brazilian Championship. We have to give a chance to local players, not to foreigners,” said Lula, as quoted by Itatiaia Esporte.

Vinicius apologises to Brazilians

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YEN.com.gh earlier reported that Vinicius Junior apologised to Brazilians, explaining his challenges when playing for the national team.

Since his debut for Brazil in 2019, the 24-year-old winger has only scored five goals in over 30 appearances for the Selecao, a record that has drawn attention and prompted his response.

Source: YEN.com.gh