Incoming Manchester United signing Ederson has received a shock call-up to the Brazil squad for the World Cup after a last-minute injury replacement. The 25-year-old midfielder, who has agreed a £35 million move from Atalanta to Old Trafford this summer, was not originally included in Carlo Ancelotti's 26-man squad but has now been drafted in following an injury to Roma right-back Wesley.
Wesley's Injury
Wesley started Brazil's friendly win over Egypt on Saturday but was forced off after just 16 minutes. The Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed on Sunday that the defender had suffered a muscle injury to the adductor muscle of his left thigh, ruling him out of the tournament. In a statement, the CBF said: 'The Brazilian Football Confederation informs that player Wesley was reevaluated this Sunday by the Brazilian National Team's medical staff and underwent imaging tests. The MRI confirmed a muscle injury to the adductor muscle of the left thigh. CBF regrets the injury. Wesley is a player who is well liked by the group and will always be considered part of this team seeking its sixth world title. In light of the diagnosis, CBF announces the call-up of player Ederson, who will join the delegation as early as this Monday in the United States.'
Ederson's Role
Ederson, who has three caps for Brazil, will now join the squad in the United States. Ancelotti has opted to bring in a central midfielder rather than a direct replacement for Wesley, leaving the right-back position open. The likely starter is now veteran Danilo, who replaced Wesley against Egypt. The 34-year-old former Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Juventus player has 69 caps and currently plays for Flamengo. Another option is former Roma defender Roger Ibanez, now with Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia.
Brazil's World Cup Campaign
Brazil began their preparations with a 2-1 win over Egypt on Saturday, with goals from Bruno Guimaraes and Endrick. Their World Cup campaign starts on Saturday, June 13, against Morocco, followed by matches against Haiti and Scotland in Group C. Ancelotti praised his team's performance, saying: 'I think the team played well, played with intensity, with rhythm, with good organisation, a lot of intensity in the pressing. This game gave me much more certainty for the debut against Morocco. We've reached this final week and I think the team is on the right track.'
