Arsenal stars make Brazil squad as Neymar misses out | OneFootball

Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli have both been called up by Brazil for the March international break, but Gabriel Jesus has been left out once again.

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Brazil officially announced Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the upcoming March internationals on Monday, with Arsenal duo Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli both included in the squad.

Brazil will face France and Croatia in a couple of friendly matches over the break, as they prepare for their participation in the World Cup this summer.

Gabriel Jesus has not been called up, meaning his wait of well over two years for a Brazil appearance is set to continue. Notably, Brazil hero Neymar has also been excluded.

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Martinelli’s chances of a call-up were boosted on this occasion by Rodrygo’s recent injury, with less competition for places in forward areas without the Real Madrid man.

Even so, another manager may have been tempted to pick Neymar over any one of the players actually called up, and the fact Ancelotti chose to continue to put faith in the likes of Martinelli is a positive sign for the 24-year-old ahead of this summer’s tournament.

Gabriel was always likely to join his Arsenal teammate in the squad, as he’s arguably Brazil’s best defender right now.

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Mikel Arteta will be sweating on the pair’s fitness, after Gabriel picked up a serious hamstring injury in a friendly with Brazil back in November. The Gunners can’t afford to lose one of the two again ahead of the Premier League, FA Cup, and potential Champions League run-ins.