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Fans claim Neymar appears ‘surprised’ by Gabriel Martinelli’s inclusion in Brazil’s World Cup squad, as fans tear apart his reaction in a clip of himself watching the announcement on TV
- Gabriel Martinelli is included in Brazil’s squad for the World Cup in Qatar
- Neymar was seen in a video looking ‘surprised’ by the addition of Arsenal players
- The PSG forward raises eyebrows as Martinelli’s name is mentioned
- Roberto Firmino missed a call as Martinelli has three senior Brazil caps
Neymar Jr’s ‘stunned’ reaction to Gabriel Martinelli’s inclusion in Brazil’s World Cup squad is going viral.
The Arsenal youngster, along with team-mate Gabriel Jesus, both defeated established Brazilian forward Roberto Firmino to secure a place in Tite’s 26-man roster, announced Monday.
During the announcement, the 21-year-old’s shot appeared to be taken by surprise by compatriot Neymar, who seemed to lift his eyes when Martinelli’s name was read out during a live television announcement.
Gabriel Martinelli (pictured) has been called up to the Brazilian World Cup squad for Qatar
Neymar’s (pictured) ‘surprised’ response to Martinelli’s call has attracted some attention
Neymar, meanwhile, filmed himself watching the announcement live with family and friends and nodded as the name of Jesus was read on television.
But when Martinelli’s name was read out, the PSG forward’s reaction was interesting to say the least.
Brazilian boss Tite (pictured) announced his team of 26 players on Monday, without Firmino
The Arsenal left winger has just three caps for his country and played just 81 minutes in three games for the Selecao, making his senior debut in a friendly against Japan in June.
Martinelli has also only collected three caps for the reserves, but Martinelli lacks some international experience, but it looks like the Brazilian boss is ready to bring the young star into the fold after a few roaring seasons with the Gunners.
After joining the club in 2019, Martinelli has become a favorite with the Emirates, netting five goals and two assists in 13 Premier League appearances this season.
While he may deserve a call-up for his good form, Neymar’s ‘shocked’ reaction was something to note and could perhaps indicate that the pressure is now on the Brazilian superstar.
Neymar (center) looked surprised when Gabriel Martinelli’s name was announced
Some fans have taken to Twitter to express their views on what Neymar’s reaction means, with the former Brazil captain expressing his elation with his family over the inclusion of his own name on the list.
One fan wrote on Twitter: ‘Neymar’s response to Tite’s call. You can tell he was happy for Gabriel Jesus and surprised at Martinelli.’
“His face when they said Martinelli,” added another.
Other Twitter users wondered if Neymar’s reaction was a cause for concern, as Martinelli, who like the PSG superstar also plays on the left wing, could take over the former Brazil captain in the coming years.
One user said: ‘Hey [Neymar] realizes he has competition,” while another wrote: “Neymar knows Martinelli has huge potential.”
Another said: ‘It’s in his eyes, Neymar judges Martinelli. LOOK.’
Notable omissions in Brazil’s squad include Phillippe Coutinho, who was sidelined this week with injury, Firmino, who hasn’t played for Brazil since last year, and Arsenal defender Gabriel.