The first international break of 2025 is just around the corner and players have already begun receiving call-ups to their respective national teams.
Brazil NT coach Dorival Jr. also announced his squad list for the hiatus and the list only included the names of two Real Madrid stars – Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr.
Also included in the list of forwards were the likes of Barcelona’s in-form Raphinha and icon Neymar Jr. The latter, however, is now ruled out through injury and the door has opened for another Real Madrid star.
Young gem called up
As announced officially by the Brazil national team, Real Madrid’s Endrick has been called up as Neymar’s replacement for the upcoming international break and will thus join Vinicius and Rodrygo in the national team camp.
The teenage sensation, after all, is no stranger to playing and shining under pressure. His opportunities under Carlo Ancelotti may indeed be limited this season but he has proven his mettle every time he has taken to the field.
Further, Endrick has played for the Brazilian national team several times before. At just 18 years of age, he has 13 appearances for the Selecao and has even scored three goals.
Endrick last played for Brazil in the World Cup qualifiers in October last year and was omitted from the squad in November as the manager cited he did not have enough playing time at the club level.
Needless to say, it comes as a massive relief to the player and the Real Madrid administration that Endrick has been called once more and that he will have chances to feature against Argentina and Colombia in the upcoming international break.
Mikel Arteta reacts to ‘fascinating’ Champions League showdown against Real Madrid
Arsenal are set to take on Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals, a fixture that promises to be an intense and high-stakes encounter.
This will be only the second time in history that the two clubs meet in the competition, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already thrilling matchup.
Mikel Arteta, the manager of the North London side, is eager for the challenge, acknowledging the significance of facing a team of Real Madrid’s calibre.
With their rich history in the Champions League and a record number of titles, the Spanish giants have long been the benchmark for European success.
However, Arsenal have been in impressive form this season, and they will be determined to prove themselves on the biggest stage.
“It’s going to be a fascinating tie. I’m really looking forward to playing against them because they’re a great team, the biggest in this competition.
But before that, we have several important Premier League matches,” said the Arsenal manager.
When will Real Madrid face Arsenal?
The quarter-final ties are set to take place on April 8 and April 16, marking the first time these two sides have met in the tournament since the 2005-06 season.
On that occasion, Arsenal emerged victorious in the round of 16, securing a famous 1-0 win at the Santiago Bernabeu thanks to a goal from Thierry Henry before holding Real Madrid to a goalless draw at Highbury.
That victory remains one of Arsenal’s most memorable European nights, and they will be aiming to replicate that success this time around.
Facing Real Madrid in the knockout stages is never an easy task, but Arsenal will be motivated to make a statement in Europe.
With both teams boasting world-class talent and strong tactical setups, the upcoming quarter-final clash promises to be a thrilling contest that could go either way.
