Brazilian President Lula da Silva made a bold case Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior and others to be omitted from the national team.
Vinicius Jr is absent from the current squadfor their October qualifications for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, due to an injury recovery for Los Blancos.
His decision not to travel was met with some criticism despite his club having a strong case for omission.
Brazil secured a 2-1 win away to Chile in midweek, with home duo Luiz Henrique and Igor Jesus on target to secure a crucial victory in Santiago,
Lula offered his view on more players plying their trade in Brazil having a chance with the Samba Boys as opposed to Europe-based stars.
“Those who are abroad are no better than those who are here,” as quotes from Sports newspaper.
“There are no Garrinchas or Romarios playing in Europe, only young players, who are not yet stars.
“In Brazil there are good players of the same quality, so give opportunities to those who are there.”
Brazil closes the October international window with a home clash against Peru on October 16 in Brasilia.
It is followed by two more matches in November against Venezuela and Uruguay.
