Brazil ran out 2-0 winners over Ecuador on Friday as Brazil took another step towards qualifying for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. And the game had added importance for Manchester United midfielder Fred, who made his first appearance for his national side since 2018.
Fred was a prominent figure in the Brazil squad prior to his move to Manchester United, having been called up to four straight camps. But after struggling in his first season with United, the 28-year-old has been left out of their squads since 2018.
Brazil manager Tite has been full of praise for Fred in the past, insisting that he is “someone every team needs”. And he has now handed him a dream return to the Brazil national team.
Fred started the game against Ecuador and lasted 62 minutes before being withdrawn. The appearance end a 22-game run where the Brazilian hasn’t been involved for his country.
Brazil have one more World Cup qualifier to play, against Paraguay, before being expected to play the Copa America. The competition was moved to Brazil on short notice and there are now suggestions that they could boycott, owing to health problems in South America.
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