World NewsZe Roberto Quits Brazil |
Veteran Brazilian midfielder Ze Roberto has announced his retirement from international football ahead of the upcoming Copa America.
The 32-year-old, who is expected to return to German Bundesliga outfit Bayern Munich after ending a brief spell with Brazilian side Santos, has been initially been named in Dunga`s squad for the Copa America in Venezuela.With Kaka and Ronaldinho left out of the squad in order to recuperate after a long domestic season and following Ze Roberto`s retirement, the defending South American champions have just five players - Juan, Lucio, Gilberto, Mineiro and Robinho - who made the 2006 World Cup squad.
"It was a very difficult decision," said the former Bayer Leverkusen and Real Madrid midfielder. "I hope I have made the right decision.
"My career with the national team is over and I have notified the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
"I am too old to play in the tournament and I won`t have a chance to play in the next World Cup."
Brazil coach Dunga has yet to announce a replacement for Ze Roberto, who made 48 appearances and scored 12 goals during his spell with Santos
"I'm grateful to Santos," he added. "I was here for two months, but it was like 10 years".
Copyright (c) 2009 Press Association
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