The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) and head coach Tite have announced the 26-man squad traveling to Qatar soon for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Led by Thiago Silva, Tite has left no stone unturned in bolstering and packing a punch in his forward line. Neymar Jr and Gabriel Jesus are the top stars leading the attack for Brazil as the five-time world champions have named as many as nine attackers in the final squad.

20 years since they last lifted the World Cup trophy in Asia, Brazil will be embarking on repeating history during the course of the next couple of months. They are believed to be one of the favorites for the tournament along with arch-rivals and fellow South Americans Argentina. The Selecao have been drawn alongside Cameroon, Switzerland, and Serbia.

While the 30-year-old Neymar will obviously spearhead the frontline, Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus, Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr, Tottenham’s Richarlison, and Barcelona’s Raphinha are also expected to form not only a formidable offense in the final third on the pitch but are also expected to provide defensive work rate and gel together on the pitch. Rodrygo Goes, Antony, Gabriel Martinelli, and Pedro will provide further cover upfront but there was no space for Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino this time around.

The midfield is also packed for Brazil with Premier League players Fred, Casemiro, Lucas Paqueta, and Bruno Guimaraes adding plenty of options and variety while Flamengo’s Everton Ribeiro will be adding depth. Philippe Coutinho, who was the star of Brazil’s 2018 FIFA World Cup, failed to find himself a spot on Tite’s list this time around.

In defense, the big news is the inclusion of 39-year-old Dani Alves. 

Since being released from Barcelona earlier this summer and having joined Mexican club Pumas UNAM instead, there were doubts that Alves wouldn’t make it to the final squad given the lack of competitive game time. However, he finds himself competing alongside Danilo for the right-back slot.

On the other flank, Alex Sandro and Alex Telles are likely to be deployed as left-backs. The center-back department will be handled by veterans Thiago Silva and Marquinhos while Eder Militao and Bremer have also been included to provide young legs and fresh energy. 

Liverpool’s Alisson is expected to keep out Manchester City’s Ederson in between the sticks and Palmeiras’ Weverton will travel to Qatar as the third goalkeeper.