Brazil’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, just threw a curveball into the national football scene. He wants Brazil’s squad packed with players from its own domestic league, cutting out stars like Vinicius Jr, Endrick, and Rodrygo, who shine abroad. You heard that right! In a radio interview, Lula pushed the Brazilian Football Federation to focus on local talent, stirring up serious waves.
Lula’s Call: Out with the Exports, In with the Locals
Lula isn’t feeling the love for those Brazilians playing overseas. He said they aren’t measuring up to legends like Romário or Garrincha. Instead, he called them “a bunch of young players who are not yet stars.” Ouch.
The timing couldn’t be worse. Brazil’s recent form has been rocky—losses to Paraguay and Uruguay, and an early Copa América exit. A shaky start for coach Dorival Junior. But this week’s 2-1 win against Chile, with goals from Igor Jesus and Luiz Henrique (both Botafogo players), may have emboldened Lula to double down on his views.
Real Madrid Stars in the Crossfire
If Lula gets his way, footballers like Vinicius Jr, Endrick, Éder Militão, and Rodrygo might not be called up again. Same goes for Premier League regulars like Alisson Becker and Bruno Guimarães. That’s a bold move, especially considering the success these players have had with their clubs abroad—whether lifting La Liga titles or Champions League trophies.
Brazil Coach Explains Endrick’s Bench Time
Endrick, who recently joined Real Madrid from Palmeiras, found himself riding the bench during Brazil’s last game. Coach Dorival Junior defended the decision, saying the young striker is still adjusting to life in Madrid and learning how to thrive at one of the biggest clubs in the world.
“Endrick’s moment will come,” Dorival said. “But for now, Igor’s experience is what we needed against Chile.” That explains why Igor got the nod ahead of Endrick. Experience sometimes just wins out.
What’s Next for Brazil’s Stars?
This whole debate raises some big questions. Will Brazil really stop calling up their best international players? Or will cooler heads prevail? Either way, this is one saga that’s far from over. For now, players like Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo will have to juggle both club and international pressures while keeping an eye on developments back home.
