Brazil manager Tite accepts that Roberto Firmino has outperformed Gabriel Jesus at club level this term, but still thinks Manchester City’s youngster will start for him at the World Cup.
In all competitions this term, Firmino’s notched 27 goals and registered 15 assists, compared to Jesus who despite Premier League glory – has 17 goals and three assists.
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“It is true that Firmino did better than Gabriel Jesus, who was injured in the season.” he is quoted by the Manchester Evening News.
“But Gabriel in the Seleção plays very well.
“So yes, today he is our number nine.” he added.
It frustrates us how Firmino is underrated at international level.
If Jurgen Klopp was Brazil manager, Firmino would be the first name on his team-sheet, closely followed by Neymar – but Tite clearly thinks differently.
In fairness to Jesus, he’s been exceptional at Seleção level, but considering the lack of defensive work Neymar and Coutinho offer – wouldn’t Bobby be the perfect foil…?
Never mind! Right now, Firmino has bigger things to worry about in terms of the Champions League Final…
Liverpool face Real Madrid in Kiev, with Firmino set to come up against Brazil team-mates Marcelo and Casemiro.
Marcelo is world-class – a truly incredible player going forward – but he leaves the kind of gaps and space in defence that we hope Firmino and co. will exploit.