NEWS: Julio Baptista has been called up to Brazil’s Copa America squad to replace Ze Roberto.
Veteran midfielder Ze Roberto withdrew from the squad after revealing he was moving back to Europe after spending a season with Santos.
The 32-year-old (pictured right) said he felt his family were vulnerable in Brazil and he is expected to re-sign for Bayern Munich, who are believed to have insisted on his retirement from international football as part of the deal.
Versatile Baptista (pictured top) can play in midfield or attack and, although he has previously struggled to establish himself in the Brazil team, the 25-year-old has the experience of playing at the highest level with Real Madrid, Sevilla and Arsenal.
The player nicknamed “the Beast” because of his physical, combative style will return to Madrid next season after spending a season in England — unless he catches the eye of scouts in Venezuela this summer.
• For a list of the Copa America squads, as they are announced, click here.
