Brazil boss Dorival Junior has explained his decision to leave Casemiro out of the Brazil squad for this summer's Copa America.
The 62-year-old named his 23-man squad for this summer's competition on Friday afternoon. Brazil will play their final friendlies with Mexico and USA at the start of next month before the competition kicks off on June 20.
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has made 75 appearances for his country since making his debut in 2011. He helped them to Copa America success on home soil in 2019, with a 3-1 win over Peru at the Maracana.
READ MORE: Manchester United handed dream Erik ten Hag replacement scenario amid sack decision
READ MORE: Rio Ferdinand outlines INEOS Manchester United timeline with Pep Guardiola and Arsenal target
However, after an underwhelming second season at United, he has been dropped from the squad along with Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus and Tottenham's Richarlison. During his press-conference, Dorival suggested a decision regarding Casemiro had been made some months ago when the pair met up in Manchester.
He told Globo Esporte: "Regarding Casemiro, he deserves respect from all of us. I had a chat with him in Manchester three months ago and explained what I was thinking at the time, about his and his team's situation, and what I needed. But just because he wasn't called up this time, it doesn't mean he's been ruled out [for future call-ups] in any way.
"He knows exactly what I think of him and that is the main thing. Tomorrow I will have another chat with him and outline what I think may happen in the future, because he is a player that deserves consideration, affection and respect. We will continue believing in a player of his level."
Casemiro was heavily criticised
Arsenal
country
UPS
MET
Target
Dreams
Gabriel Jesus