Gleison Bremer, Juventus’ robust Brazilian defender, recently opened up in an in-depth interview with ESPN Brazil. As he enjoys a few days of relaxation in Bahia before returning to Turin for preseason, Bremer shared insights into his career, his recovery from injury, and some fascinating behind-the-scenes stories—including an attempt by the Italian national team to bring him into the Azzurri fold.
“The Italian National Team Tried to Naturalize Me”
Bremer revealed that the Italian national team made a serious effort to convince him to switch allegiances and play for Italy. He explained:
“They tried to naturalize me, but I come from the countryside of Bahia, and suddenly becoming Italian felt forced. I spoke with Roberto Mancini, and he explained that there was this possibility—I could have gotten the passport thanks to my wife. But I thought, ‘The Seleção is the greatest of all.’ And then I imagined the scene: you arrive at training camp, everyone is Italian, and they ask, ‘What is a Brazilian doing here?’ I wouldn’t have liked that.”
On Ancelotti and the Dream of the Seleção
Bremer’s dream remains to shine in the famous yellow and green of Brazil, a dream that now has a new chapter with Carlo Ancelotti taking charge of the national team. Bremer couldn’t hide his excitement:
“When I found out, I celebrated with my fists in the air. He will look at Italy with more attention, also because here in Brazil we see very few matches from our own league. The spotlight is all on the Premier League, on Real Madrid, and on Barcelona.”
Recovery and Ambitions for the Future
After a serious injury last autumn, Bremer is finally ready to return to full training with Juventus on July 24. His main goal is to earn a call-up for the 2026 World Cup, and he knows that his performances in Turin will be crucial. With confidence and determination, he said:
“I have already shown my value. I’m coming back from an injury. If I am physically fit, I am sure I will be called up, but the road is still long. It’s important that I stay focused and get back in shape. And Ancelotti’s appointment is that of a top-level coach. I believe he will now look at Italy with different eyes.”
