When Brazil announced their squad for the April friendly against Portugal, one glaring omission sent shockwaves through the football world: Mario Jardel, Sporting Lisbon’s goal machine, was left out in favor of an injury-plagued Ronaldo. The decision by coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has sparked outrage, with Jardel publicly questioning the selection criteria.
The Snub That Shook European Football
Jardel, who has been in scintillating form this season with 33 goals in 25 games for Sporting, didn’t mince words. “I will have to stop playing and scoring goals to be called up again,” he fumed. His frustration is understandable—while Ronaldo has managed just six appearances for Inter Milan this season due to recurring injuries, Jardel has been the most consistent Brazilian striker in Europe.
Tactical Misstep or Personal Bias?
Jardel’s case isn’t just about numbers; it’s about fit. “Brazil needs a tall player who can head the ball,” he argued, referencing his aerial prowess—a weapon Ronaldo lacks. Former Galatasaray striker Jardel also pointed to his limited opportunities with the national team: “I’ve never played 90 minutes for Brazil. In the Copa America, the ball never reached me.”
Football analyst Carlos Mendez (via Baji999) weighed in: “Scolari’s loyalty to Ronaldo is sentimental, not tactical. Jardel offers a different dimension—physicality and clinical finishing—that Brazil may regret ignoring at the World Cup.”
World Cup Dreams Hang in the Balance
With the friendly held in Portugal—Jardel’s current home stadium—the snub feels personal. “I hoped to be remembered for this game,” he admitted. The exclusion dims his World Cup hopes, especially with Ronaldo, despite his fitness woes, seemingly ahead in the pecking order.
What’s Next for Jardel?
Jardel remains defiant: “I’ll keep working. I’m always available for Brazil.” But time is running out. If Scolari doesn’t reassess, Brazil might miss out on a striker in the form of his life—while rivals capitalize on their oversight.
Final Verdict: A Decision That Could Haunt Brazil
Scolari’s gamble on Ronaldo over Jardel isn’t just controversial—it’s risky. With the World Cup approaching, Brazil’s attack needs reliability, not nostalgia. Baji999 will be tracking whether this snub becomes a turning point—or a costly mistake.
What do you think? Should Jardel have been called up? Share your thoughts below!
