Chelsea midfielder Oscar has been omitted from Brazil’s final 23-man squad for this summer’s Copa America although Willian will play after being picked by coach Dunga.
The Brazil national side announced on Thursday their final team that will participate in the centenary edition of the Copa America tournament, which begins on 3 June and runs until 26 June, in the USA.
Oscar’s lack of regular game time at Chelsea has resulted in the midfielder being omitted from the squad alongside Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino, Arsenal defender Gabriel Paulista and PSG forward Lucas Moura among others.
However, Willian – who has been Chelsea’s best player this season – has been rewarded for his consistent performances and indeed goals by being picked for the tournament.
Other high-profile names to make the team include former Chelsea left-back Filipe Luis, PSG defender Marquinhos, Hulk and Douglas Costa.
Neymar will not play in the Copa America but instead represent the Selecao in the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro later in the summer as part of the agreement between his club Barcelona and Brazil.
Shortly after the announcement of the squad, Willian took to social media to express his delight at his selection.
“I’m very proud for the opportunity to defend the Brazilian National Team one more time! #CopaAmerica2016,” he wrote on Twitter.
I'm very proud for the opportunity to defend the Brazilian National Team one more time! #CopaAmerica2016 pic.twitter.com/9N8wCBWqPa
— Willian (@willianborges88) May 5, 2016
The 27-year-old has previously admitted he would like to play in both the Copa America and Olympic Games this summer, although such a scenario would see the forward miss out on a full pre-season with Chelsea and the start of the new Premier League campaign under new boss Antonio Conte.
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