Liverpool star Roberto Firmino has issued a heartfelt response after he was devastatingly left out of Brazil's final 26-man squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
On Monday, Selecao boss Tite named the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Richarlison, Gabriel Martinelli and Antony ahead of the Reds striker, who has netted eight times this season so far for the Anfield club. The striker's goal tally this campaign is superior to that of the aforementioned four Premier League players.
The 31-year-old took to Instagram to share his disappointment after missing out on what would have been his second showing at the World Cup after featuring in Russia in 2018.
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"Passing by to say thank you for all the lovely messages,' the Liverpool forward wrote on social media.
"The World Cup is a dream for every player and with me it wouldn't be any different. Yesterday things didn't go the way I imagined or dreamed for my life but I can look back and have a grateful heart to God that he has already allowed me to live that dream.
The marksman, who was last called up in during the September international break, also congratulated his fellow countrymen who were chosen to represent Brazil at the tournament later this month.
"I take this opportunity to pay my respect and congratulate all the summoned. It was, is, and will always be an honour to defend my country, especially with the gift that the Lord gave me."
Tite also explained the decision to select Arsenal's Martinelli, who is considered a surprise selection in some quarters, per Daily Mail.
He said: "We like Martinelli's aggressiveness. He's one of the top players at Arsenal, the first placed team in the Premier League. He's good in one-v-ones, he's very rapid in transitions and he's been playing at a consistently good level."
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To date, Firmino has contributed 17 goals and seven assists in 55 matches for the five-time world champions.
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