Renan Lodi is aiming for a return to the Brazil national team after clarifying a controversy involving vaccination. The 28-year-old left-back gave his version of the incident that saw him sidelined from coach Tite's call-ups in 2022, as reported by Globo Esporte this week.

Lodi was part of the cycle for the 2022 World Cup, playing in the 2021 Copa América and the qualifiers. The controversy arose in early 2022 when Tite stated in a press conference that the player lost his chance to compete for a spot because he was not vaccinated against Covid-19. Juninho Paulista, the CBF coordinator at the time, gave a different version, saying Lodi did not have a complete vaccination cycle, which would have prevented his entry into Ecuador for a qualifier.

What actually happened in 2021?

Renan Lodi now explains his situation. He traveled to Brazil to face Colombia and then joined the squad in San Juan, Argentina. At that time, the Brazilian Supreme Court did not mandate vaccination or quarantine for entry into the country, requiring only a negative RT-PCR test. Neighboring Argentina also had no restrictions. "On that occasion, the coach at the time said things he shouldn't have." Lodi stated.

The player was only recalled in September 2021, after Alex Sandro was cut due to injury, for a friendly match. But he was left out of the final squad for the Qatar World Cup. The incident generated significant repercussions at the time and, four and a half years later, the full-back finally tells his side of the story.

What is Lodi's record with the national team?

Renan Lodi has 19 appearances for Brazil, including qualifiers, Copa América, and friendlies. His record stands at 13 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses. He also provided five assists during that period. His last call-up was in 2023 under coach Fernando Diniz. He was called up again by the same manager but was cut due to injury. Three years have passed since his last appearance.

The current moment for the Seleção is one of rebuilding after a 2-1 loss to Norway on July 5th. The team leads its World Cup 2026 group with 7 points from 2 wins and 1 draw in 3 games. Their recent form in the last five outings is 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss (LWWWD). The attack has scored 7 goals and the defense has conceded only 1, for a +6 goal difference. The next match is against Australia, away from home, on September 25th, as listed on the fixtures schedule.

Why is the September call-up significant?

The list to be announced on September 9th generates expectation for Lodi, as it could be his first under coach Carlo Ancelotti. This call-up is seen as an important step toward being part of the new cycle that is forming. The full-back sees himself as more mature and ready to wear the yellow jersey again at age 28. "Today I am a more prepared person than when I went to the national team. Of course, I was still learning a lot," he said.

Lodi mentioned that if he is called up, it will be thanks to his Atlético teammates. His experience and maturity could be valuable assets for a squad looking to solidify its position in the tournament standings. The team needs to maintain the consistency shown so far to ensure a solid campaign.

How does Lodi fit into the current project?

With the opening of a new cycle, spaces may open up for players with international experience. Lodi has already experienced the pressure of a Copa América and the qualifiers. His versatility and offensive ability, proven by his five assists for the national team, are traits that could interest the coaching staff.

The return of a player after a period of absence always carries special meaning. For Renan Lodi, overcoming the controversy of the past and demonstrating his value on the pitch will be the key. The opportunity could come as soon as the next international challenge, a friendly against Australia scheduled for the end of this month.