Antony emotional as Brazil stars react to World Cup squad call-ups

Man United winger Antony and other players shared emotional reaction videos to the announcement of their inclusion in the Brazil squad for the World Cup.

The Selecao confirmed their squad for Qatar in a video announcement last night. With a plethora of talent to choose from, many Brazilian stars sweated on whether or not they had a place on the plane.

For 2022, many slate Brazil as one of the favourites to win the World Cup – therefore, a spot in Tite’s squad becomes even more enticing.

So, unsurprisingly, many players had highly emotional and entertaining reactions to what can be a career-defining call-up. One of those players was Man United’s Antony, who shared a video on Twitter.

PL stars react to Brazil World Cup squad

In the clip, the winger sits expectantly with his family members as the 26-man squad is announced. Antony wore a Brazil shirt for the occasion, with his family supporting him in Man United tops.

Upon hearing his name, the group leap up with joy and begin jumping around in a circle. Then, as emotion overcame the Man United star, he stayed in a long embrace. Clearly, going to his first World Cup was too good to be true.

Similarly, Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes shared a clip to his social media of his reaction. With his family surrounding him, Bruno sat apprehensively, cradling his new-born child. Then, when Tite calls his name, the Newcastle midfielder gently (but excitedly) jumps to his feet along with his family.

These videos really demonstrate just how much the World Cup means to the players, and just how important it is to represent their country. For others, though, a World Cup call-up calls for a double celebration.

Flamengo’s Pedro proposes to girlfriend after World Cup call-up

Flamengo forward Pedro took a very different approach to celebrating his inclusion in the Brazil World Cup squad. After hearing the good news of his spot on the plane to Qatar, the striker had an announcement of his own.

In a touching move, Pedro proposed to his girlfriend, causing a chorus of whoops and cheers from family members. She then said yes to the proposal, making his great day even better.

Although one of the lesser-known players in Brazil’s star-studded squad, Pedro more than justifies his spot. He has 29 goals and 10 assists across 59 appearances this year – a prolific return for the forward.

Additionally, his goals brought him glory, too; Pedro fired Flamengo to the 2022 Copa Libertadores crown, their second in the last five years.

In contrast, PSG’s Neymar was arguably the first name in Tite’s team for Qatar. Despite this, he still enjoyed hearing his name in the squad announcement.

Firmino among players unlucky to miss out

Unfortunately, due to the depth in the Brazil options, a number of stars missed out. One player who may feel hard done by is Roberto Firmino. Tite left the Liverpool forward out of his 26-man squad, despite his great form this season.

Firmino actually has more goals than both Richarlison and Gabriel Jesus, whom both made the squad ahead of him.

Elsewhere, Newcastle midfielder Joelinton also sadly did not make the cut. He is yet to make a senior appearance for Brazil, but his new lease of life in midfield under Eddie Howe may have put him in with a shout.

And Arsenal centre-back Gabriel, although having a very solid season, will not be going to Qatar either. With the likes of Eder Militao and Marquinhos in the squad, there are still too many defenders ahead of him.

Brazil’s squad is listed in full below:

Goalkeepers: Alisson, Ederson, Weverton

Defenders: Dani Alves, Danilo, Alex Sandro, Alex Telles, Thiago Silva, Eder Militao, Marquinhos, Bremer

Midfielders: Lucas Paqueta, Fred, Fabinho, Bruno Guimaraes, Everton Ribeiro, Casemiro

Forwards: Vinicius Jr, Richarlison, Rodrygo, Raphinha, Pedro, Neymar, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, Antony

Featured image credit: Getty