Manchester United midfielder left out of Brazil squad

Premier League club Manchester United midfielder Fred has been left out of the Brazil International squad for upcoming friendlies this month.

Despite his recent form, it seems like an interesting decision for the managerless Brazil side which are set to face Morocco in an International friendly on March 25. Fred made the World Cup squad two times under former manager Tite but was left unused.

The 30-year-old midfielder has become a regular feature under new manager Erik Ten Hag and his performances have been crucial to Man United’s rejuvenation this season. Primarily an attacking midfielder, the Dutch manager has taken full advantage of the Brazilian’s versatility and has improved him much better from last season.

However, for the club and its fans alike, it would be a relief to know the recent news about Fred’s exclusion from the Brazilian squad. Manchester United have a thick run of games coming up this month which will decide their position in the league table as they aspire to challenge for the title to mark their recovery from last season. It is crucial that the Brazilian remains available for Erik Ten Hag as the injury of Christian Eriksen have rendered a deficit in the United midfield.

Apart from the notable exclusion of Fred, Arsenal star Gabriel Martinelli, Paris Saint Germain superstar Neymar and Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson are also out of the squad. All these players have been in considerably good form this season and Brazil seems to be experimenting with their squad in the absence of a full-time manager.

Meanwhile, Casemiro has been called for friendly. Other players who have been called up by their International sides include teenage sensation Alejandro Garnacho and Lisandro Martinez for the World winners Argentina.

Ricardo Gomes, Brazil’s interim team director on the managerial appointment said on Friday:

"“We have great Brazilian coaches here, It’s not in our culture [to have foreign coaches]… but the choice is of the president [of Brazilian Football Confederation] and the board.“We’re open. But, no matter the nationality, what matters is the competence.”"