Brazil's Renato Augusto, Gil sing praises of Chinese football
Renato Augusto and Gil have praised the quality of football in China, predicting more top Brazilian players will follow their footsteps by joining Chinese clubs in the near future.
The duo have been included by coach Dunga in Brazil's squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Paraguay, reports Xinhua. Gil on Monday said he is feeling as sharp as ever after joining Shandong Luneng from Corinthians in January.
"Those who know me know how hard I work," the 28-year-old central defender said. "I didn't go to China to retire. I continue to play with the same seriousness."
Augusto, who also left Corinthians to join Beijing Guoan in January, is determined to show his worth to the national team in the coming days.
"I didn't go to China for holiday," he said. "I am working hard on my fitness and I'm feeling fit. I'll be ready if Dunga calls on me.
"Chinese football is only going to get stronger. I arrived there and was positively surprised by the level. It's a high level and it will only get better. Don't be surprised if other players based in China get called up to play for Brazil."
Brazil's squad gathered at their Granja Comary base in Teresopolis, near Rio de Janeiro on Monday. The Selecao will play Uruguay in Recife on 25 March before facing Paraguay in Asuncion four days later.
Dunga's side is currently third in the South American zone World Cup qualifying standings with seven points from four matches. Ecuador lead with 12 points, three points ahead of second-placed Uruguay.