Bruno Fernandes reacts as Raphinha earns Brazil call-up
Leeds United attacking midfielder Raphinha has been called up by Brazil for their World Cup qualifiers against Chile, Argentina and Peru in September.
It is the first time that the 24-year-old has been called up by the national team, and he will be keen to make himself a mainstay in the star-studded squad.
Raphinha is very delighted with the news and has taken to his personal Instagram account to post: “I’m very happy, I don’t know how to measure so much happiness and pride in receiving this wonderful news that is being able to represent my country for the first time.
“I just have to thank everyone involved, whoever knows me knows that I’m going to be making a child’s dream come true, not only mine, but that of everyone who walked with me since forever, thank you very much for the affection I’ve been receiving from everyone.
Manchester United star and his former teammate at Sporting Lisbon Bruno Fernandes has reacted to the news, commenting “Merecido” which means “deserved”.
Deserved indeed
Raphinha ended his first season in the Premier League with six goals and nine assists in 30 appearances, and he definitely proved his quality for all to see.
Breaking into the Brazilian squad is one of the toughest things to do for footballers from the South American nation, and we are proud of the winger.
Earning a call-up and retaining a place in the team are two different things, though, with the latter being the hardest part.
The Leeds ace has everything it takes to become a regular for his country, and he only needs to deliver again for us this season.
The new campaign did not start on a bright note for Raphinha as he was on the receiving end of a 5-1 hiding at the hands of Manchester United on Saturday.
It was his old teammate who ran the show for the Red Devils, with the Portuguese grabbing a hat-trick.
Leeds will look to quickly put that disappointment behind them like they always do, and the Brazilian will be eagerly looking forward to the next game against Everton at Elland Road.
His country team selectors will be watching him a lot this season, and the desire to play at next summer’s World Cup would serve as constant motivation.
In other Leeds news, Bielsa shares summer heartbreak after major Elland Road development.