Gabriel Paulista looks set to be handed his first Brazil call up in the upcoming international break, with the Arsenal new boy given a late call by Brazil boss Dunga, as reported by .
Gabriel has barely played for us since his January arrival from Villarreal, with Arsene Wenger initially looking to ease him into the team, and an untimely injury sidelining him a few weeks ago.
He has been impressive during his sparse appearances however, and has been rewarded with a shock call up.
The call came after David Luiz, Marquinhos, and Diego Tardelli were all forced to withdraw, leaving the Canarinhos desperately short at the back.
It is, of course, a fantastic boost for Gabriel to be called up for his national team, but it does lend to the theory that you have to play for a top team to get noticed.
The young star was superb in La Liga, and was a huge part of Villarreal’s defensive stability (it may not be a coincidence that their defence has crumbled since his departure).
Despite that however, his first call up didn’t arrive until he made the switch to the Emirates – where he has started just one Premier League game so far.
Strangely, his first game may even be played at the Emirates – against fellow Gunner Alexis Sanchez no less – with Brazil playing Chile on March 29th.
Fingers crossed he doesn’t pick up another injury while away (or at home) on international duty!
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