Brazil national team coach, Dorival Junior, has provided insight into his decision to exclude Manchester United midfielder Casemiro from his 23-man squad for the upcoming Copa America.

Despite Casemiro's significant contribution to Brazil's 2019 Copa America triumph, Junior opted not to include the former Real Madrid star in the squad. This decision mirrors the omission of Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus and Tottenham's Richarlison.

In an interview with Globo Esporte (as reported by Manchester Evening News), Junior explained that his decision was based on strategic considerations and the team's current dynamics:

“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.”