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When Fabinho made the switch from Liverpool to the Saudi Pro League in 2023, many assumed that his international career with Brazil was nearing its conclusion.

The midfielder first represented Brazil in 2015, participating in that year’s Copa America, followed by appearances in the 2016 and 2021 editions, and also being part of the 2022 World Cup squad. During that World Cup, he featured once, as the Selecao were eliminated in the quarter-finals by Croatia.

On that occasion, Fabinho remained on the bench for most of the tournament and subsequently fell out of the national selection following the competition—until an unexpected recall at the end of 2025 reignited his international hopes.

Recalling his early days with the national team, Fabinho told FourFourTwo, “The first time I truly felt the pride of wearing the Brazil shirt was with the under-20s in South Africa. It’s an incredible emotion—you almost can’t believe it’s happening. My senior team debut was equally memorable, even more so because it took place in São Paulo, close to my home.”

He added, “Some of my family members were there watching. It was a friendly against Mexico before the Copa America. I played for 45 minutes and I think I did pretty well.”

Even though it’s been more than a decade since his debut, Fabinho has earned only 30 caps—a modest tally for a player of his calibre.

When asked if he feels he’s been overlooked, Fabinho replied, “In the opportunities I’ve had, I believe I’ve always performed well. I’m satisfied because I’ve done everything possible to earn my chances and make the most of them.”

His only World Cup appearance came during Brazil’s group stage match against Cameroon in 2022, which had no bearing on the team’s qualification. Yet, Fabinho remains positive about the experience. “I did well against Cameroon,” he recalled. “Of course, every player hopes to play more. As a holding midfielder, I thought, ‘If we’re ahead and need to control the game, I’ll come on.’ But it didn’t happen at that World Cup. During the quarter-final against Croatia, when we went out on penalties, maybe that could have been my moment.”

His return to the national team last year saw him included in the squad for friendlies against Senegal and Tunisia, making an appearance as a substitute in the latter match. With that experience, Fabinho believes he still has a realistic shot at being part of the Brazil squad for the World Cup in North America this summer.

“It meant a lot to be back with the national team,” Fabinho said. “Since moving to Saudi Arabia, that’s been one of my main ambitions. I know I can still contribute and be an important player. All I wanted was the opportunity to train, to do my job, and to prove that I’m performing well.”

He concluded with confidence, “As for my chances of going to the World Cup this summer, I believe I have a shot—why not? I’ll just keep working hard to make it happen.”