Five-time World champions Brazil have been dealt a severe blow ahead of this summer’s 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia with the news that flying wingback Dani Alves will not make the mundial.
The 35-year old injured his cruciate ligament in Paris St Germain’s French Cup win over Les Herbiers on Tuesday and despite initial hopes that he will make Russia, latest reports have ruled the enigmatic star out of the mundial.
The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) on Friday revealed via its official Twitter handle that Dani Alves’ participation in Russia has become impossible.
News of Alves’ injury will be a blow to Brazilian coach Adenor Leonardo Bacchi (Tite), with star man Neymar still out injured.
The former Corinthians coach is expected to release his final squad for the tournament on Monday and must now find a replacement for Alves at right back with Corinthians star Fagner the favourite to step up in his stead.
The Seleçao will regroup in Brazil ahead of their pre-World Cup friendlies against Croatia and Austria on June 3 and 10 respectively.
Brazil will begin their campaign for a sixth World Cup title when they face Switzerland at the Rostov Arena on June 17.
Photo credit: AFP
