Ronaldinho named in Brazil Olympic squad

July 8, 2008

Coach Dunga has called up Ronaldinho Gaúcho and Robinho, from Barcelona and Real Madrid, respectively, as well as Fluminense’s Hat-trick hero Thiago Silva using all three of his allotted slots for players over 23 years old.

AS Roma defender Juan was expected to feature in Dunga’s list, but the Italian club decided to not allow the player to compete at the Olympic Games under the FIFA regulations.

Although Werder Bremen and Schalke 04 had publically gone as far as to announce they would not let go Diego and Rafinha, the Brazilian pair are part of Dunga’s plans.
Brazil are in Group C and will have their debut in the tournament against Belgium on the 7th of August, followed by matches against New Zealand and the tournament’s hosts, China.

Brazil Olympic Squad:

Goalkeepers: Diego Alves (Almeria), Renan (Internacional);

Defenders: Breno (Bayern Munich), Alex Silva (São Paulo), Thiago Silva (Fluminense), Rafinha (Schalke 04), Ilsinho (Shakhtar Donetsk), Marcelo (Real Madrid);

Midfielders: Anderson (Manchester United), Lucas (Liverpool), Ronaldinho (Barcelona), Diego (Werder Bremen), Hernanes (São Paulo), Thiago Neves (Fluminense);

Forwards: Alexandre Pato (AC Milan), Jô (Manchester City), Rafael Sobis (Real Betis), Robinho (Real Madrid).

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