Brazil coach Dunga spoke out against his players for organising what he called an evangelical religious service in Boston during the team's stay at a hotel there for the Selecao's friendly against the United States on Sept. 8.
"We don't allow religious services at the Selecao hotel. We have a room where the players can receive their families or people close to them.The Selecao is not the place for religious nor political expressions.
"The pastor was not part of the Selecao. He was in the area to receive families, but we didn't agree upon that."
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A photo posted by Guilherme F Batista Ⓜ️ (@guilhermefbatista) on
At least 10 players participated in the services, which were promoted by Kaka and David Luiz and officiated by Brazilian pastor Guilherme Batista following Brazil's 4-1 friendly win over the United States.
Dunga said he spoke with the players to let them know that "that was not the place for this type of manifestation" and to warn them that people who get too close to the national team face repercussions.
Social media showed photos and video of Batista officiating in a ceremony with members of the Brazil national team and even Dunga was included in a photo along with Batista at the airport.
A photo posted by Guilherme F Batista Ⓜ️ (@guilhermefbatista) on
Dunga insisted that he does not oppose the practice of any religion, but asked the players to practice on the "inside" and not create publicity.
"When you want to do good, you don't have to announce it to the entire world," he said.
Dunga on Thursday named his 23-man selection for upcoming 2018 World Cup qualifying.