2002 World Cup winner Ronaldinho, who was left off the 2010 Brazilian World Cup squad by then coach Dunga, has been in excellent form for championship contender Flamengo and has been recalled to Brazil's squad for a friendly against Ghana in London on September 5 by coach Mano Menezes.

It's 31-year-old Ronaldinho's first call-up since returning from Europe in January.

"He is turning into one of the top players in Brazil this season," Menezes said. "He's been playing frequently and showing his physical improvement because we never doubted his technical (abilities). Ronaldinho is becoming a leader who must be a key figure we need in the Brazil team. He can come to signify for the national team what he means to Flamengo."

Also re-called were Real Madrid defender Marcelo, Cruzeiro goalkeeper Fabio and forward Hulk of Porto, and Leandro Damiao of Internacional, while Santos defender Danilo gets his first call.