39-Year-Old Dani Alves Ready To Make His Mark For Brazil In Qatar

Alves has been an unused substitute in the Selecao's opening two victories over Serbia and Switzerland but with manager Tite set to ring the changes on Friday after Brazil secured their place in the knockout rounds with a game to spare, Alves could come into the side against Cameroon.

The 39-year-old has won 124 caps for Brazil since making his debut in 2006 and played at the 2010 and 2014 World Cups but missed Russia 2018 due to injury.

Alves acknowledges he is not getting any younger but believes he can still make a meaningful contribution when called upon.

"[I'm] very proud to be able to be here," he said at a press conference.

"I have been doing so for many years with the squad, so to be able to wrap up this cycle by playing in the World Cup makes me very happy.

"When you work hard, dedicate yourself and go after what you want, you'll go places you would never have thought of. That's what life is giving me.

"All my 16 years on the squad, I have done my best for the team. Life always rewards the people who love what they do and do their very best on the mission.

"I am reaping what I have planted over those 16 years. It's normal that people question this because of my age or because I am not at my best, but at the World Cup it's not about being your best for a club, but having your best moment at the tournament.

"In the two matches that I wasn't present, our team needed a better defender in my position, I'm good as an attacker – that's a plan that we have established here, to know how the team plays and what will be demanded of a player.

"I am here to serve the team. If I have to play the drum, I will be the best drummer out there. 

"I know what I can do for the team and know there are other players at a better moment than I for what is requested. I know I can deliver, know what I can deliver.

"Trust is something you don't ask for, it's something you obtain. I have obtained the trust."