Barcelona and Brazil superstar Neymar said he was looking forward to the realisation of a childhood dream Wednesday after being confirmed in his country’s World Cup squad.
The 22-year-old, who helped propel the Selecao to last year’s Confederations Cup, will be playing in his first World Cup and said he could already taste the excitement.
“This is the realisation of a dream I have had since I was a child,” Neymar said on social media after Luis Felipe Scolari named him in his 23-man squad.
“I don’t doubt this is one of the happiest days of my life. I’ve always been chasing my dreams and this was always one of my main ones – not just to represent my family but ALL BRAZIL.
“I thank God for this opportunity, this gift,” said the youngster, who joined Barca from Pele’s old side Santos last year but who has had a mixed time of it to date at the Camp Nou.
“I am emotional, anxious, nervous, just waiting for the day to arrive,” he said.
Centre forward Fred, who dovetailed to great effect with Neymar a year ago to win the Confederations Cup dress rehearsal, said he also couldn’t wait to get stuck into Brazil’s rivals, starting with Croatia on June 12.
“It’s up to me and my teammates to wear our hearts on our sleeves and give (fans) the happiness which has been on hold for 64 years,” said Fred, referring to Brazil’s lost trophy match of 1950 in Rio when they lost to Uruguay.
“I feel sure we can recreate the atmosphere and bond with the fans which we created during the Confederations Cup,” added the Fluminense favourite.
“That sixth title will come,” promised the 30-year-old, who scored one goal at the 2006 World Cup in Germany but missed the cut for the 2010 tournament in South Africa.
Chelsea defender David Luiz said: “To live this moment is something you can’t put into words. I want to thank God, my family and friends. I will do all I can to honour my countrymen.”
Clubmates Ramires and Willian were also overjoyed at being selected for the adventure.
“I don’t have words to describe this moment,” said Ramires. “I am just overjoyed and proud to be in the Brazil squad. I’ll do my best – let’s go and get that title.”
Willian said: “Today, I’ve received the best news of my life. I get the opportunity to play a World Cup, a dream I’ve had since I was a kid.”
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