Star’s international snub good for Everton

Richarlison is yet to be called up for the senior Brazil international squad, and will likely have to wait longer after manager Tite did not name him in the 24-strong team that will face the United States and El Salvador in the upcoming international break in the first week of September.

The 21-year-old has been in sparkling form to start the season for the Blues, scoring thrice in just two games and making a strong general showing in all positions upfront. He has 10 youth international caps in which he scored thrice, but is still waiting for his maiden Seleção call-up.

Speaking to outlet UOL Esporte (via SportsMole), Richarlison said -

“I was really looking forward to the call for Friday. I watched with great anticipation, but unfortunately it was not this time.

“I can not say why [I have not been called], there are 24 names and it’s difficult for the coach to choose, I’ll keep working to be on the next list.

“I feel more prepared, I already know the rhythm and style of the Premier League, which helps me on the way to the achievements. I want to be the top scorer of the league, take Everton back to the Champions League and therefore reach the Brazilian national team.”

It’ll be interesting to see if this snub sparks Richarlison to maintain his hot start and continue to do whatever he can to catch the eye of Tite. This of course will play right in Everton’s favour as they could certainly use his pace and creativity to wreak havoc across the frontline.

Tite also left out Marcelo (Real Madrid), Paulinho (Guangzhou), Gabriel Jesus and Fernandinho (Manchester City) while retaining 13 players from this summer’s World Cup.

Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Hugo (Flamengo), Neto (Valencia)

Defenders: Alex Sandro (Juventus), Dede (Cruzeiro), Fabinho (Liverpool), Fagner (Corinthians), Felipe (Porto), Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid), Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain), Thiago Silva (Paris Saint-Germain)

Midfielders: Andreas Pereira (Manchester United), Arthur (Barcelona), Casemiro (Real Madrid), Fred (Manchester United), Lucas Paqueta (Flamengo), Philippe Coutinho (Barcelona), Renato Augusto (Beijing Gouan), Willian (Chelsea)

Forwards: Douglas Costa (Juventus), Everton (Gremio), Roberto Firmino (Liverpool), Neymar (Paris Saint-Germain), Pedro (Fluminense)