No Casemiro or Jesus as Brazil boss Dorival Júnior names Copa América squad

Dorival Júnior has unveiled his Brazil squad ahead of the Copa América which will be staged in the United States.

Argentina are reigning champions but can expect stern competition from the likes of Uruguay, Colombia, the USA and of course Brazil.

On Friday, Seleçao boss Dorival Júnior named a pre-list ahead of the tournament and Neymar Jr. was the high profile and expected absence as the Al Hilal player continues to recover from a serious knee injury. The spotlight will invariably fall on Real Madrid striker Vinicius Jr. who has been instrumental in securing a 36th LaLiga title for Los Blancos as well as steering the Spanish giants to the 2023-24 Champions League final where they will face Borussia Dortmund in London.

Promising talent Endrick has also made the cut with the teenager still playing with Palmeiras ahead of his move to Real Madrid next season.

Brazil will face Mexico and the USMNT ahead of the competition as part of the two friendly games in preparation for the tournament with new boss Dorival Junior boosted by his team’s showings in the two games played under his tutelage in March as the Seleçao beat England and drew 3-3 with Spain.

Notable absentees

Apart from the injured Neymar, Casemiro’s absence has generated much consternation from Brazil fans despite the 32-year-old struggling with Premier League giants Manchester United.

Richarlison and Gabriel Jesus are two other high profile Premier League stars that have been edged out with Brazil boasting a wealth of striking talent with the likes of Martinelli (Arsenal), Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Evanilson (Porto) and Savinho (Girona) all making the cut after impressive seasons for their clubs.

Brazil Copa América squad