Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli broke down in tears and hung up the phone on his parents after discovering he was in Brazil’s squad for the World Cup.
Martinelli was on Monday named in Brazil’s squad for the tournament in Qatar this month and his inclusion shocked some, not least the player himself.
Brazil’s forward options are vast and it was thought that Martinelli would miss out at the expense of Liverpool’s Roberto Firmino.
As it was, Martinelli got the nod and the 21-year-old has revealed he was so emotional after receiving the news that he couldn’t talk.
“I’m very happy,” said Martinelli. “It’s one of the most important moments in my life and in my family’s life as well - I’m buzzing, I’m so excited to go there and be part of this team.
“I cried a lot, I couldn’t even talk and I was with my family and on the phone but I needed to turn the phone off and call them later because I couldn’t even talk.
“I think it will be good for for my career and to play in the World Cup will be amazing. I’m so excited to go there and I’m prepared for the challenge and I hope we will win it.
“I think my Arsenal form has been so important because if I’m not playing good at Arsenal I cannot be called up and that’s why I’m there because I’m doing well with the club.
“When I talked to Mikel [Arteta], he was so happy for me, said congratulations, and said go there and smash it.”
