Name: Dante
Age: 30
Position: Defender
Club: Bayern Munich
Caps [goals]: 11 [2]
Dante, despite his age, has only been involved with the Brazil national team since Luiz Felipe Scolari took charge in late 2012. The Bayern Munich defender was immediately called upon by Felipão and made his debut at Wembley against England in 2013. Although Dante isn’t a regular starter he played a key part in helping win the Confederations Cup and will be vital this summer you feel.
Why has he been selected?
In addition to being a commanding presence in the back four, Dante is also adept at playing out from the back. This has only improved with Pep Guardiola taking charge of Bayern this season. The centre back’s height is a huge asset also.
How has he played this season?
The Brazilian has impressed again for Bayern this season, especially in the Bundesliga where he featured 29 times and was a vital component of Guardiola’s defence. In the Champions League, however, he hasn’t always looked assured.
What will his role be in Brazil?
David Luiz is likely to be Thiago Silva’s preferred centre back partner, as he was in the Confederations Cup, but Dante will be expected to play a part in this tournament. He will be the third choice central defender and any suspension to Silva or Luiz will see the Bayern defender thrust into the action. Though he will start the competition on the bench do not be surprised if he ends it in the starting eleven for one reason or another.
