RIO DE JANEIRO, Feb. 28 (Xinhua) -- Real Madrid teenager Vinicius Junior earned his first Brazil call-up on Thursday for the team's upcoming friendlies against Panama and the Czech Republic.
The 18-year-old forward, who has made 25 first-team appearances for the reigning European champions following his 46 million-euro move from Flamengo last July, is the only new name on coach Tite's 23-man list.
"We need to be calm so that there is not too much expectation placed on him," Tite told a news conference here on Thursday. "He has two characteristics that set him apart: His one-on-one ability, the change of direction. His strength is impressive. He will develop his technique and his finishing. He has time on his side. It's a construction process."
Those who were recalled by Tite included AC Milan midfielder Lucas Paqueta, West Ham playmaker Felipe Anderson, Palmeiras goalkeeper Weverton and Paris Saint-Germain right-back Dani Alves.
Weverton and Gremio forward Everton were the only Brazil-based players named.
As expected, Paris Saint-Germain forward Neymar and Manchester City midfielder Fernandinho were absent from the squad due to respective foot and groin injuries.
Real Madrid left-back Marcelo was also overlooked as he struggles for opportunities under the Spanish club's manager Santiago Solari.
Brazil face Panama in Porto, Portugal, on March 23 and the Czech Republic in Prague three days later.
Brazil squad:
Goalkeepers: Alisson, Ederson, Weverton
Defenders: Daniel Alves, Danilo, Alex Sandro, Filipe Luis, Marquinhos, Miranda, Thiago Silva, Eder Militao
Midfielders: Allan, Arthur, Casemiro, Fabinho, Felipe Anderson, Lucas Paqueta, Philippe Coutinho
Forwards: Firmino, Gabriel Jesus, Richarlison, Everton, Vinicius Junior.
