Daniel Alves’ role transcends the four lines, in coach Tite’s view. The right-back will be the starter and captain in this Friday’s match (2), against Cameroon, at 4 pm. At the age of 39, he becomes the oldest player to wear the shirt of the Brazilian national team in World Cups, a record that belonged to defender Thiago Silva until the match against Switzerland, and admits that he will be the best in the ‘mission’ he needs to carry out .
“We can’t think it’s going to please everyone. I saw an interview with Scarpa in which he said: “People who were at my birthday and cheered against it”. But we represent with pride, love, passion. And Dani does that, I really respect him getting where he got. He is much more than just playing football, he transcends football”, said Tite.
Daniel also recognizes that his role can be played both on and off the pitch. His call-up was criticized by supporters and he admitted he feels the discomfort but is not affected by it.
“If I have to play tambourine, I’ll be the best tambourine player you’ll ever see. My mission is also to be important, regardless of whether I’m playing more or less. I know my moment, I know what I deliver and I know that other players can be in a better position. moment to execute what is requested. I know what I can deliver and, therefore, I am here”, he analyzed.
About the criticisms, he also said he understands them.
“Historically, in the national team, someone has always had to pay the bill. If I were in Barcelona, ​​this debate would hardly happen. They made a mistake [por criticar], because they were put on the account of those who have the most arguments to pay. It bothers me, but it doesn’t affect me. I’m not a masochist, I don’t want people to talk about me without even knowing about my dedication. It’s easy for them to do that, so it’s easy for me to accept it or not… I prefer to go the other way, which is to deliver my best”, he added.
Brazil faces Cameroon already with an eye on the opponent of the round of 16, which will be defined in the 12h matches. At the moment, the opponent’s group is led by Portugal, followed by Ghana, Uruguay and South Korea. Only the European team is classified in advance, while the other three maintain their chances.
In addition to the match, the Brazilian team awaits the recoveries of Neymar, Alex Sandro and Danilo.
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