Gomes was named in Brazil’s 26-man selection for friendlies against Japan and Singapore, with the 25-year-old earning recognition after establishing himself in Emery’s midfield. The Aston Villa manager is pleased with the progress of both Brazilians and believes Alysson has the potential to reach the same level.
“Joao is progressing very well and with his individual objectives as well. With us and for the national team, that is really fantastic,” Emery said.
Alysson, 20, has been given opportunities in Villa’s first team, starting three consecutive matches against Newcastle United, Viking FK and Manchester City before the club’s Carabao Cup exit against Bournemouth. Emery acknowledged that the forward is at an earlier stage of his development than Gomes, who arrived from Wolves for £35 million in the summer and already has Premier League experience.
“Alysson is on the same page, like Joao. He's young - of course, the difference with Joao is he has experience in the Premier League. But the potential they both have is really huge potential.
“If they be like [they are] now, like humble, listening, practicing their tasks, trying to understand each match, how you can improve for the next one.
“They are in this way. Alysson too, like Joao, as a Brazilian, to get to the national team is something very, very special.
“Every Brazilian player is defending the national team very strongly. For Joao it is fantastic, for Alysson my expectation is he will get it as well, but let's see.”
Gomes’ international selection represents a turnaround after a difficult start to his Villa career. Having impressed during pre-season following his move from Wolves, he was sent off in the 4-0 defeat at Brighton on the opening weekend. He has since become an important partner for Boubacar Kamara in the centre of midfield.
Emery is also working with several other young attacking players, including Ibrahim Mbaye, Alejandro Garnacho, Johan Manzambi and Brian Madjo. He believes their development requires patience, with experience an essential part of learning to compete consistently at senior level.
“The experience is a very important thing. They need time. With experience, normally we are better. But sometimes, or always, young players need this time to get it.
“I like a lot to work with talented players, to progress with them and to try to get the right mentality, the necessary mentality to compete at this level.
“How hard is each match? How hard is each duel with the opponent? A very, very good example is the last match we played in Bournemouth.”
For Alysson, Gomes’ call-up provides a tangible example of what can be achieved at Villa, with Emery confident that the young forward has the potential to earn his own opportunity with Brazil.