Arsenal star receives 1st Brazil call-up

Brazil confirmed this week that Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhaes are both in their list of call-ups for the March international break.

It’s Martinelli’s first call-up, and Gabriel is also yet to feature for the senior side, despite a couple of call-ups now.

Both players played for the Brazil u23s over the summer, with Martinelli winning Olympic Gold and Gabriel only missing out on the final tournament through injury. They’ll both be hoping the next step is this year’s World Cup.

“I am very happy for the call-up,” Martinelli said. “This is a very important moment in my life and in my career.

“I’ve always dreamed of this moment and I’m going to give my best in the national team as I do here at Arsenal.

“I also want to thank God for the opportunity, and for everything that he has provided me. And thanks to everyone for the support.”

Brazil face Chile and Bolivia in March, having already qualified for the World Cup later this year. At this point, their final matches are just about pride and preparation for the final tournament.

Perhaps that will help the Arsenal duo’s chances of a game, considering the manager is more likely to pick players to see how they perform rather than just picking a side to win.

Brazil host Chile on Thursday, 24th March at 23:30 GMT and travel to Bolivia for Wednesday, 30th March at 00:30 GMT.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=videoseries