Brazil boss reveals Casemiro conversation after Manchester United midfielder dropped

Brazil boss Dorival Junior has explained his decision to leave Casemiro out of the Brazil squad for this summer's Copa America.

The 62-year-old named his 23-man squad for this summer's competition on Friday afternoon. Brazil will play their final friendlies with Mexico and USA at the start of next month before the competition kicks off on June 20.

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has made 75 appearances for his country since making his debut in 2011. He helped them to Copa America success on home soil in 2019, with a 3-1 win over Peru at the Maracana.

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However, after an underwhelming second season at United, he has been dropped from the squad along with Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus and Tottenham's Richarlison. During his press-conference, Dorival suggested a decision regarding Casemiro had been made some months ago when the pair met up in Manchester.

He told Globo Esporte: "Regarding Casemiro, he deserves respect from all of us. I had a chat with him in Manchester three months ago and explained what I was thinking at the time, about his and his team's situation, and what I needed. But just because he wasn't called up this time, it doesn't mean he's been ruled out [for future call-ups] in any way.

"He knows exactly what I think of him and that is the main thing. Tomorrow I will have another chat with him and outline what I think may happen in the future, because he is a player that deserves consideration, affection and respect. We will continue believing in a player of his level."

Casemiro was heavily criticised following United's 4-0 defeat at Crystal Palace earlier this week. Despite being under contract until 2026, it remains unclear whether he will stay at the club beyond the summer.

Meanwhile the Copa America could follow the same decision made ahead of this summer's European Championship and increase to a 26-man squad. According to reports, it will most likely go up from 23 to 26 players, though CONMEBOL are yet to confirm possible changes.

The competition which will take place in America, will get underway on June 20 with the final scheduled for July 14.

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