Ahead of the Copa America, Inter and Brazil defender Joao Miranda has recalled how the death of his brother helped shape his life as a footballer.
“My brother always helped me with everything. He had the highest salary in the family and his death was a real blow. I still remember as if it was today,” the veteran told the official website of the Brazilian national team.
“I remember telling my mum, ‘I will become a professional footballer and I will help you.’ My Mum saved money every month and I helped her pay for it. I bought a house for all my brothers and made my family’s financial situation stable and this is priceless for me.”
He concluded by revealing who he would dedicate winning the Copa America too if Brazil manage to win it.
“It all started when I lost my brother, I focused on the promise I made to my mum. If we win the Copa America I will dedicate it to my brother and to my family who have always been by my side and supported me in the difficult moments. If I win the Copa America it will be the crowning moment of what is an extraordinary moment for me.”