Manchester United full-back Alex Telles made his first competitive start for Brazil in the early hours of this morning.
The 29-year-old played the full 90 minutes as the Selecao beat Paraguay 4-0 in a South American World Cup qualifier.
The former Porto man came into Tite’s side after Alex Sandro tested positive for Covid-19.
Italian outlet La Gazzetta dello Sport has confirmed that the Juventus left-back has tested positive for the virus.
It was Telles’ second start for his nation, but his first came in a friendly against Panama three years ago.
The start against Paraguay was his fifth cap, with his other three appearances coming as a substitute during the CONMEBOL qualification campaign.
Telles had Real Madrid’s Vinicus Junior playing in front of him, and in the second half he nearly had an assist to his name when Atletico Madrid’s Matheus Cunha headed wide.
It was a trademark pinpoint cross from United’s number 27 one that Cristiano Ronaldo and Edinson Cavani may have converted unlike Cunha, who the Reds will face in the Champions League later this month.
Telles also showcased his set-piece prowess by whipping in a tantalising free-kick that Marquinhos would have tapped home had it not been for a late intervention from a Paraguay defender.
Wearing the number six shirt, SofaScore gave Telles a 7.9 rating for his performance. He had 90 touches and made three key passes.
Solid defensively, Telles made five tackles, two interceptions and won all seven of his contested ground duels.
Posted on Instagram following the victory, Telles said: “Congratulations to all for the victory. Very happy to be part of this family. Always an honour Brazil.”
Alongside Manchester United captain Harry Maguire, legendary Brazil left-back Roberto Carlos also reacted to Telles’ post, by saying ‘Congratulations’.
Telles’ Manchester United teammate Fred was an unused substitute. The pair will now head back to Manchester, but are unlikely to feature in Friday’s FA Cup clash against Middlesbrough.
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