Thiago and Rayan receive first Brazil call-ups

"Thiago is the second-highest scorer in the Premier League season with 19, trailing only Manchester City's Erling Haaland with 22, with his goals powering Brentford to seventh place in the table. The 24-year-old joined the West London side for a club-record fee of 30m in July 2024 from Club Brugge, but failed to score in his first season with the club as injury restricted him to eight appearances."

"I haven't called him up because he's not 100 per cent, coach Carlo Ancelotti said of the 34-year-old, who has not played for his national side since October 2023. But for the final [World Cup] squad, that's another story."

"Five-time winners Brazil start their World Cup campaign against Morocco in New Jersey on 13 June, and will also face Haiti and Scotland in Group C."

Brazil has announced squad selections for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia in late March, featuring several new players. Brentford striker Igor Thiago, with 19 Premier League goals this season, earns his first call-up after joining from Club Brugge for 30 million pounds. Bournemouth winger Rayan, 19, also receives his debut selection following his January transfer from Vasco de Gama. Former Norwich attacker Gabriel Sara and Flamengo centre-back Leo Pereira are additional new additions. Notably absent is Neymar, deemed unfit by coach Carlo Ancelotti, though the coach suggests his status may change for World Cup selection. Striker Endrick has been recalled after a year away. These matches serve as final preparations before Ancelotti names his World Cup squad for Brazil's campaign beginning in June.

Read at www.bbc.com