Mauro Júnior Rules Out Netherlands Call-Up After Committing to Brazil
PSV Eindhoven defender Mauro Júnior has officially ended any speculation regarding a potential international career with the Netherlands, stating plainly that manager Xavi Hernández will not be calling him up, according to reporting by Voetbalzone. Having recently made his debut for the Brazil national team under manager Carlo Ancelotti, the 27-year-old player confirmed that his childhood dream of representing the Seleção has taken precedence over any opportunity with Oranje. Rumors had previously circulated in Dutch media regarding a potential switch, given that Mauro has lived and played in the Netherlands since joining PSV in 2017 and is eligible to obtain a Dutch passport without losing his Brazilian citizenship. However, speaking in an interview with ESPN, the utility player clarified that his future lies solely with his birth country.
The Decision to Choose Brazil Over Oranje
While a call-up to the Netherlands national team under Xavi remained a logistical possibility through naturalization, Mauro dismissed the prospect entirely when discussing his international ambitions. “That is finished, I think. I am quite sure of it. He acknowledged the persistent reports linking him to the Dutch setup but emphasized his lifelong connection to his homeland. “There were some rumors about the Dutch national team, but of course it has always been my dream to play for Brazil.
Ancelotti’s Selection and a Dream Debut in Asia
Mauro’s commitment to Brazil follows a breakthrough international period in September, during which manager Carlo Ancelotti handed him his first senior caps for the Seleção during a trip to Asia. He made his debut as a substitute against Australia, started the subsequent match against the same opponent, and contributed an assist as a substitute in a fixture against India. Reflecting on the physical and emotional toll of the journey, Mauro told ESPN.nl that the experience exceeded his expectations despite demanding travel. “It was a long trip, but a very nice experience,” he said, adding that the reality of the achievement hit him only after checking his phone and seeing celebratory messages from his wife and family.
Mauro Reunites with Former Brazil Youth Teammates
Within the Brazil camp, Mauro experienced a familiar reunion, having previously played alongside winger Vinícius Júnior in Brazil’s youth ranks. “When I played with him I was a midfielder, now I am a back. That was a lot of fun,” Mauro told VoetbalPrimeur, noting that he also shares a close bond with defender Gabriel Magalhães. The significance of his debut match ball remains paramount to the PSV captain. As reported by Voetbalzone, he has preserved the jersey from his first appearance against Australia in his home. “It is at my house. I have already had all my teammates sign it. That is going to get a special place,” he remarked. Back in Eindhoven, several club teammates—including Joey Veerman, Jerdy Schouten, and Guus Til—reached out with congratulatory messages during his time away.
Return to Eredivisie Action With PSV
With the international break concluded, Mauro has returned to club duties as PSV prepares to resume Vriendenloterij Eredivisie play. According to Voetbalzone and ESPN.nl, the Eindhoven side hosts sc Heerenveen at the Philips Stadion on Friday at 20:00 local time (UTC+2). Ancelotti has indicated that he continues to monitor the versatile defender’s club performances. “He thinks I’m good as a player and as a person and he’s keeping an eye on me,” Mauro told ESPN.nl regarding the Brazil manager’s feedback. “He also said that if I keep doing the same thing and keep playing well, there is a big chance he will call me again.”
