Juventus defender Gleison Bremer is overjoyed to be back in the Brazil national team, earning a call-up for upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia. The inclusion marks a significant milestone for the center-back, who has battled back from serious injuries to reclaim his place in the Seleção squad. These matches, scheduled for March 26th in Boston and March 31st in Orlando, represent the final opportunity for players to impress coach Carlo Ancelotti ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup roster announcement.
Bremer’s return to the national team comes after nearly two years, a period marked by significant physical challenges. He last represented Brazil at the 2024 Copa America, but a series of setbacks threatened his chances of competing on the world stage. The 28-year-old spoke to Brazilian media, expressing his gratitude and determination. “I am enormously happy to be back in the Brazil squad after almost two years,” Bremer said, as reported by Football Italia. “I had some very difficult moments, a serious knee injury and then another operation on the meniscus, but the hope of getting back into the team and fighting for a place at the World Cup was always there.”
The road to recovery wasn’t easy. Bremer endured a significant ACL injury, sidelining him for a substantial portion of the 2024/2025 season, appearing in only eight matches for Juventus. He made a comeback at the start of the 2025/2026 campaign, only to suffer another injury in October 2025, keeping him out of action until December 2025. Despite these hurdles, Bremer remained focused on his goal. “This was always one of the big objectives for me, even when I was still in the midst of recovery and it all seemed such a long way away,” he explained.
Bremer’s resilience and dedication haven’t gone unnoticed. He shared a video compilation on Instagram showcasing his rigorous training regimen during rehabilitation, a testament to his commitment. The call-up also arrives as a timely birthday gift, as Bremer will turn 29 on Wednesday. He understands the weight of representing his country. “These were many small steps that together created this journey. I will honour this jersey, the greatest in the world, with all of my strength, my commitment, and my passion. Thank you, Brazil,” Bremer stated.
The friendly matches against France and Croatia will be crucial for Ancelotti to assess his options ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Brazil will be looking to build momentum and refine their squad dynamics as they prepare for the tournament. The matches offer a valuable opportunity to experiment with different formations and player combinations, particularly with a relatively latest coaching staff in place.
Bremer’s inclusion alongside Roma winger Wesley Franca represents the only Serie A representation in the current Brazil squad. This highlights the growing recognition of talent within the Italian league, and Ancelotti’s willingness to scout players from various European competitions. The Juventus defender has earned five senior caps for Brazil to date, with his most recent appearance coming in a friendly against Mexico on June 9, 2024.
While focused on his national team aspirations, Bremer remains committed to Juventus. He emphasized that his priority remains with the Turin club, aiming to secure a Champions League spot for next season. “Piala Dunia? After this injury, I haven’t thought too much about the long term; you can get injured at any time and anything can happen,” Bremer told DAZN, as reported by Ligaolahraga.com. “The World Cup is a goal, but I’m only thinking about Juve, game by game, and playing well.”
The upcoming matches will also provide a glimpse into Ancelotti’s tactical approach. The experienced Italian manager, known for his pragmatic and adaptable style, will be looking to build a cohesive and competitive team capable of challenging for the World Cup title. His assessment of players in Serie A, like Bremer, suggests a broader scouting network and a willingness to consider talent from diverse leagues.
For Bremer, this recall is more than just a professional achievement; it’s a personal triumph over adversity. His journey back to the national team is a story of perseverance, dedication, and unwavering belief in his abilities. As he prepares to represent Brazil once again, he carries the hopes of a nation and the determination to make a significant impact on the world stage.
What’s Next: Brazil will face France on March 26th in Boston, followed by a match against Croatia on March 31st in Orlando. These friendlies will be pivotal in shaping Carlo Ancelotti’s final squad selection for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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