Samuel Lino, from Flamengo, is called up for the Brazilian national team

Samuel Lino’s strong start at Flamengo has already earned him a call-up for the Brazilian national team. This Saturday, the forward was summoned by coach Carlo Ancelotti for the upcoming matches against Chile, next Thursday at Maracanã, and Bolivia on the 9th, away from home, for the last two rounds of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Lino steps in for Matheus Cunha, who was withdrawn due to a muscle injury suffered on Saturday in Manchester United’s game against Burnley in the English Premier League. Cunha had to be substituted in the first half when he tried to sprint to receive a pass but stopped abruptly, falling to the ground in pain with a left thigh injury. This was the fourth replacement Ancelotti had to make in the squad for the September matches. In addition to Cunha, left-back Alex Sandro from Flamengo, midfielder Joeliton from Newcastle-ENG, and right-back Vanderson from Monaco had already been withdrawn, all due to injuries. Jean Lucas from Bahia and Vitinho from Botafogo were called up to fill their spots, with no replacement for the Flamengo player. Lino has had an impressive start at Flamengo. The forward, signed from Atletico Madrid, has already secured a starting position and contributed two goals and four assists in eight games. He has quickly won over the fans and caught the attention of the national team coaching staff. Before joining the national team, Lino has one more commitment with Flamengo. This Sunday, at 4 p.m., the team faces Grêmio at Maracanã for the Brazilian League. Players are set to report to the national team coaching staff on Sunday, and activities begin the following day with the full squad. The team will prepare at Granja Comary in Teresópolis, RJ until Wednesday, the eve of the match against Chile at Maracanã.