Taffarel Explains Why Weverton Made Brazil’s World Cup Squad

Overview

• Claudio Taffarel said on Saturday that Palmeiras keeper Weverton was picked for the 26-player World Cup roster mainly for his experience after staff concerns about Alisson’s physical issues and Ederson’s form.
• Taffarel denied that Al-Nassr keeper Bento was left out as punishment for recent mistakes and said those errors did not determine the final selection.
• Taffarel confirmed that veteran Fluminense goalkeeper Fábio will not be called up now despite his strong club form and past national-team service.
• The coaching staff had a clear alternate plan: Taffarel said that if Weverton had not been available the third-goalkeeper list would have been Bento, Hugo Souza and John.
• With the squad set ahead of Brazil’s opening match against Morocco at MetLife Stadium, the selection reduces immediate uncertainty in goal but leaves Alisson’s fitness and Ederson’s form as items to monitor before next matches.