Tim Vickery has stated that Brazil boss Tite ‘didn’t trust’ Gabriel Magalhaes that’s why the Arsenal defender wasn’t selected for his side’s squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The mood and feeling around the Arsenal training ground would have been one of mixed emotions.
On one hand, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus will be headed to the Middle East this month, after their outstanding start has resulted in Arsenal sitting top of the Premier League table.
But, on the other, it’s one of sadness for the man patrolling their defence, because he has been left out of Brazil’s squad that will start as one of the favourites.
According to South American football expert Tim Vickery, it shouldn’t be a surprise, because even when Gabriel was picked for Brazil squads, he hardly played, as he told Sky Sports News (07/11/22 at 5:20 pm).
“No, (it’s not a surprise),” said Vickery. “In fact, none of them were in the last squad (Gabriel, Martinelli and Jesus).
“With Gabriel, he was in the squad for a while, without playing, but I think it became clear that the coach didn’t trust him. He didn’t trust him enough. His exclusion wasn’t a surprise.”
GABRIEL CAN ANSWER CRITICS ON THE FIELD
For any player, looking to represent any nation, it would hurt a lot if you missed out on the chance to play on football’s biggest stage.
The World Cup is what defines careers, makes legends, generational talents, and moments fans will never ever forget, especially if you are donning the famous yellow of Brazil.
But, at 24, this is just one setback for Gabriel and, come the next World Cup in the USA, when he will be an experienced campaigner, he has every chance of earning that chance.
If Mikel Arteta is guiding Arsenal on an unthinkable journey, then there is no reason why Gabriel can’t be at the heart of that all in years to come, and with it, boosting his chances of playing for Brazil.
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