Midfielder Andreas Pereira revealed on Tuesday (19) that the call-up for the two matches of the Brazilian National Team is the realization of a childhood dream. Born in Belgium and son of Brazilian parents, the Fulham player chose to defend Brazil. On Saturday (23), the National Team will face England at Wembley. Three days later, the Yellow and Green will play against Spain in Madrid.
“This dream of playing for the Brazilian National Team is a story I have always had. I refused Belgium several times. It’s a childhood dream that I am fulfilling for the second time today, I am very happy to be here,” said the player, who revealed that he got a tattoo with the phrase “Giant by its own nature,” part of the national anthem lyrics.
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“I got this tattoo because it is an immense pride to be Brazilian and I was sure I would return to the Brazilian National Team,” added the Fulham midfielder.
He mentioned that he received several contacts to play for Belgium, but he did not accept. The former Flamengo player had already represented the Belgian National Team between 2010 and 2013 when he played in the youth categories.
According to FIFA rules, an athlete can represent different national teams until playing a match in an official adult tournament for any of them. From that moment on, they will have to continue defending that country forever.
Always a favorite
Andreas Pereira is one of the highlights of Fulham in the English Premier League. At 28 years old, he was already called up for the National Team in 2018 by Tite.
In the press conference, he analyzed the match against England on Saturday.
“The Brazilian National Team will always be the favorite against any opponent. Brazil is the best team in the world. Of course, we know their qualities, they have many good players. We respect England, but we know our qualities,” said the player.
