World Cup 2018: 5 stars not assured of a spot in the starting XI

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The World Cup kicks off in just nine days

#4 Roberto Firmino (Brazil)

Croatia v Brazil - International Friendly
Firmino has not started for Brazil this year

Roberto Firmino has been a revelation this season at Liverpool, taking his game up another notch. He has perfected the role of a 'false nine', as his side reached the Champions League final due to their bewitching attack.

However, Brazil coach Tite prefers Gabriel Jesus over Firmino. Jesus had a successful season with Manchester City but he was the second choice to Sergio Aguero there.

Arguably Firmino is a better option than Jesus due to his work rate and ability to drop deep and instigate attacks.

However, the trio of Jesus, Neymar, and Philippe Coutinho have developed chemistry in a successful qualifying campaign, something which Tite clearly values.

Jesus started in the recent friendly over Croatia, but as Firmino showed in the same match, he can definitely attempt to sway Tite's mind. There's nothing like some healthy competition, is it?

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Edited by Alan John
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