Lucas Paquetá has been named in Brazil’s squad for the upcoming Copa América, which will be hosted by the United States from 20 June.
Midfielder Paquetá has been in good form for West Ham United throughout 2023/24, scoring eight goals and recording seven assists in all competitions.
Since making his debut for Seleção in September 2018 against the USA, Paquetá, who dons the iconic No10 canary yellow and green shirt, has become a mainstay in his national side as his career continues to go from strength to strength.
After playing a minor role in 2019 as Brazil lifted their ninth Copa América title, Paquetá was a pivotal figure as the Seleção reached the final of the 2021 tournament, scoring winning goals in the quarter-final win over Chile and semi-final victory over Peru. The 26-year-old then started the final against Argentina in Rio, where they were edged out 0-1.
But Paquetá has been selected by recently-appointed head coach Dorival Júnior, who he played under at Flamengo in his formative years, to represent his country at the 48th edition of one of the most prestigious tournaments in international men's football.
The Hammers No10 will hope to add to his 44 caps and ten goals when Brazil face Costa Rica, Paraguay and Colombia in Group D.
Brazil begin their Copa América campaign against Costa Rica on 24 June at the SoFi Stadium at 4pm BST, then take on Paraguay at Allegiant Stadium on 28 June at 4pm BST, before concluding their group stage fixtures against Colombia at Levi’s Stadium on 3 July at 4pm BST.
Speaking to whufc.com, Paquetá said: “I’m super happy [to be called up to the squad].
“It’s a real privilege to represent the Brazilian national team at another Copa América. It's a dream of mine to win the competition again. There is no better feeling than winning a cup for Brazil.
“As a Brazilian, the biggest achievement you can have is to wear the Brazilian shirt because we know how difficult it is to achieve your space in the team. There are hundreds of thousands of great players fighting for 23 spots, so you have to feel privileged and proud to arrive at the Brazilian team.
“The national team is going through a transition phase with new players and a new footballing philosophy. I’ve won [the tournament] and came second on the other [occasion], so the expectation is very high because it’s a new cycle. I just hope we can settle in quickly, hit the ground running and bring the Copa América home once again.”
The 2024 Copa América will conclude with the final in Miami, Florida, on Sunday 14 July.
