Manchester City defender Vitor Reis has received his first senior Brazil call-up after establishing himself as a key man during his loan spell at Verona.
The 20-year-old will join Carlo Ancelotti's side for a friendly against Croatia in Orlando on Tuesday and arrive in the United States on Friday.
The timing is not a coincidence. Vitor Reis has become one of Verona's most reliable players this seasonBecoming a regular starter in LaLiga.
espn brazil Say he is currently the Brazilian player with the most minutes played in the competition, which underlines both his consistency and importance within the team.
That prominence reflects the success of Manchester City's growth plan. Since arriving in Spain, the defender has acquired a central role and rarely leaves the pitch.
He has played 27 league matches, starting 26 of them, and logged over 2,300 minutes. In those appearances, he has recorded 163 clearances and 77 recoveries, while only being dribbled seven times.
In possession, he has completed 1,277 passes with 90.8% accuracy, showing clear alignment Pep Guardiola's demands.
sudden call in the early morning
The Brazil call-up came unexpectedly. according to espn brazilVitor Reis was sleeping when he received a call from national team coordinator Rodrigo Caetano at around 3 a.m. local time.
He woke up to the news that he needed to go to Orlando immediately to join the team. Neither the players nor their entourage, owned by Manchester City, expected a call at this stage.
After the conversation, Vitor Reis immediately informed his family and representatives. He then made arrangements to travel to the United States within a few hours. The sudden nature of the call highlights how quickly his rise is being recognized internationally.
This is his first senior call-up, but his excellent form has already attracted attention in Brazil. As we recently coveredThe Palmeiras (his former club) academy director, who worked with Vitor Reis at youth level, said "He will be Brazil's centre-back for the next three or four World Cups".
Reward for breakout season
Vitor Reis has got this opportunity after months of consistent performances in Spain. Verona have relied heavily on him throughout the campaign, with the Brazilian becoming a pillar in their defensive structure.
The loan move was designed to provide minutes and continuity. It has done exactly that. In addition to his defensive work, he has scored one goal, one assist and created eight chances. His increasing influence in possession has also come to the fore, with regular involvement in Verona's build-up play.
From Manchester City's point of view, the signs are very positive. The defender is gaining experience in a system that shares similarities with Guardiola's approach, which should ease his transition upon returning to England.
what happens next
Vitor Reyes is Hope to return to Manchester City after his loan spell ends this summer. This first senior Brazilian call-up strengthens his case ahead of that move.
The coming months will be important for both club and country. If he maintains his current level, he could reach the Etihad with real pace.
For now, Manchester City will see this recognition as proof that their long-term investment is moving in the right direction.
