Fabinho, now 32, has been called up to the Brazil squad for the upcoming friendly matches, marking his first national team selection since the 2022 Qatar World Cup. The defensive midfielder's impressive form in Saudi Arabia has evidently caught the attention of the national team's coaching staff. He currently plays for Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, where he has become a key figure for the club.
This season, he has contributed one goal and two assists in 12 appearances, proving his ability to deliver impactful midfield performances even outside Europe's top leagues. This recall is a significant moment for the seasoned player, who could earn his 30th cap for the national team if he features in either of the upcoming matches.
Fabinho saw limited action at the Qatar World Cup.
At the Qatar World Cup, the midfielder played only a bit-part role as a substitute for Casemiro, featuring in just one match, the 1-0 loss against Cameroon. After the tournament, he completed the season at Anfield before making a permanent move to the Saudi Pro League in the summer of 2023. His Merseyside career spanned five years, during which he made 219 appearances, scoring 11 goals and providing 11 assists.
The Brazilian player's trophy cabinet from his time at Liverpool includes some of English football's most prestigious accolades: a Premier League title, a Champions League victory, and triumphs in both domestic cup competitions. His departure to Al-Ittihad marked the end of a highly successful chapter in English football, where he became known as one of the most crucial components of Jürgen Klopp's midfield.
In Brazil's matches against Senegal and Tunisia, the midfielder could reunite with several of his former Premier League colleagues, including Casemiro, Lucas Paquetá, Richarlison, Bruno Guimarães, and Gabriel Magalhães. These matches offer Carlo Ancelotti another opportunity to assess the squad, and Fabinho might even make his debut under the Italian manager.