The 18-year-old, born in England to a Brazilian father and Italian mother, was selected for two friendlies against Peru after impressing in Newcastle United’s academy. His journey to Belém involved a 12-hour flight to São Paulo and a four-hour delay.
“I had to start training as soon as I got there but I think it's shown how far I have come as a player because I wasn't too nervous or anxious,” Ferreira told Newcastle’s official website.
“I am doing the thing I love the most, playing football, and it was nice to get on the pitch and train with the squad.”
Ferreira understands Portuguese but has found speaking it more difficult after growing up in England. He said the squad had helped him improve his fluency.
“The only thing I was nervous about when joining up with the squad was speaking but I'm getting better each day,” he said.
The call-up came as a surprise when Ferreira checked his phone after Newcastle Under-21s’ Premier League Cup fixture against Peterborough.
“My first reaction was just pure joy. I was so happy,” he said. “My parents wanted to tell me first before I checked my phone but it was still a great moment to share with them, who were both very emotional.”
Ferreira joined Newcastle’s academy in 2020 after playing for Berwick Juniors and Cramlington Juniors, signed his first professional contract on his 17th birthday and made his senior debut against Gateshead in July. He has since featured regularly for Robbie Stockdale’s Under-21s.
He sees the Brazil selection as recognition of his work on and off the pitch, but is already looking beyond the first call-up.
“It's an amazing achievement but I don't want this to be the last. I will keep pushing on and try to get that next call-up or progress into the first-team. Once I reach one level, it's about getting to the next one. It doesn't stop there.”
Ferreira’s Brazilian connection began in childhood, when his father showed him videos of Ronaldinho, Ronaldo and Neymar. He also remembers watching Brazil play England at Wembley, with Neymar among the players on the pitch.
“The interest they showed me and the project they have was a big reason [to accept the call-up]. Brazil is a big country so to be recognised by them is amazing. It's a big opportunity and an honour to represent them.”
The winger has also embraced playing in different positions for Newcastle’s Under-21s, including as a wing-back, winger and number 10. He believes the experience has helped him understand the tactical demands of the game.
“The credit goes to my parents,” he said. “They've helped me get to where I am today as well as the team around me throughout my time at the Academy. They've been so supportive in my journey.”
Brazil’s two friendlies against Peru are part of the Under-20 side’s preparations for the South American Championship in January 2027. Ferreira now hopes to turn his first call-up into an international debut.