Anderson Talisca, a prominent forward for Al-Nassr, found himself absent from the recent unveiling of Brazil’s national squad set to participate in the CONMEBOL FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Venezuela and Uruguay.
This squad announcement by Brazil’s manager, Fernando Diniz, who meticulously selected his 23-man roster, and, to the disappointment of many, Talisca’s name was not among them.
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Brazil’s forward line against Venezuela and Uruguay.
Within this roster, Diniz has entrusted Brazil’s forward line to the talents of players such as Raphinha, Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior, Gabriel Jesus, Matheus Cunha, Neymar, and Richarlison. The midfield department boasts a formidable array of options, featuring Gerson, Andre, Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Joelinton, and Raphael Veiga.
Talisca’s notable omission from the squad is striking, especially considering his remarkable form for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. He has commenced the season with a flourish, notching up five goals and contributing two assists in just four games. This level of consistency has been a hallmark of his tenure with the club since his arrival in 2021, culminating in an impressive record of 48 goals and eight assists in 64 appearances.
There’s also Talisca’s standout performance for Al-Nassr in the Riyadh derby, which unfolded just before Brazil’s squad announcement. In this high-octane encounter, Talisca left an indelible mark on the proceedings.
Okay, Talisca has found his Brazilian Passport, what a goal that , 3-1 Al Nassrpic.twitter.com/8Y8FPEyIjJ
— Preeti (@MadridPreeti) September 22, 2023
He contributed significantly with a close-range header for a goal, executed a sublime left-footed strike that found the back of the net, and played a pivotal role in another goal with an assist.
Despite a late resurgence from Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr clinched a thrilling 4-3 victory, elevating themselves to fifth place in the league standings with a tally of 15 points from seven matches.
Official:
Talisca’s goal against Al Raed is voted the best goal of match week 6. 🚀 💥 pic.twitter.com/qcyQYoQ2WG
— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) September 18, 2023
It’s intriguing to note that despite his club exploits, Talisca has yet to receive a call-up to Brazil’s senior squad. In response this, Talisca took to Instagram to convey his sentiments.
Talisca On IG after not getting picked for the Brazil NT
“I’m starting to think I’m not Brazilian”
Do you think he deserved to be in the squad? pic.twitter.com/50mXQazB95
— Al Nassr Zone (@TheNassrZone) September 23, 2023
Has Anderson Talisca ever been invited Brazil’s squad?
Yes. In March 2018, Talisca was named as an unused substitute in Brazil’s senior squad during Brazil’s 3-0 friendly triumph against Russia. Prior to this, he had represented Brazil at both the U20 and U23 levels, showcasing his talents on the international stage.
One could not help but observe Talisca’s standout performance for Al-Nassr in the Riyadh derby, which unfolded just before Brazil’s squad announcement. In this high-octane encounter, Talisca left an indelible mark on the proceedings. He contributed significantly with a close-range header for a goal, executed a sublime left-footed strike that found the back of the net, and played a pivotal role in another goal with an assist. Despite a late resurgence from Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr clinched a thrilling 4-3 victory, elevating themselves to fifth place in the league standings with a tally of 15 points from seven matches.
In light of his exceptional performance, Talisca might have harbored hopes of securing a coveted spot in Brazil’s national squad. However, this aspiration remained unrealized on this occasion for the former Guangzhou player.