Brazil has suffered a massive setback just moments before the start of the FIFA World Cup. Crucial defender Wesley has been ruled out of the tournament after picking up an injury during the team's final warm-up match.
In a press release issued on Sunday (June 7), the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced that the defender will miss the World Cup due to an injury sustained in the match against Egypt.
A post-match MRI scan revealed an adductor muscle injury in his left thigh.
Ederson has been called up as Wesley's replacement. The CBF confirmed that he will join the Brazil squad in the United States on Monday (June 8).
Early Exit and Emotional Scenes
Brazil defeated Egypt 2-1 in the warm-up fixture held at FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland, USA. However, Wesley was forced off the pitch just 15 minutes into the game after sustaining the injury.
The defender, who joined Italian club Roma last season, had recently established himself as a first-choice player in the national squad.
Wesley was visibly emotional after suffering the blow, leaving the pitch in tears. He was later seen sitting in the dugout with his head in his hands in deep frustration and was spotted limping out of the stadium after the final whistle.
Ancelotti Laments Loss of Key Asset
Highlighting Wesley's significance to the squad, Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti said:
"He is an extremely important player for us. He always gives his absolute best and plays with full intensity. Since moving to Italy, he has overcome most of his weaknesses."
Wesley's exclusion right on the eve of the tournament is being viewed as a severe blow to Brazil's defensive line. It remains to be seen how heavily his absence will impact the Seleção's World Cup campaign.
Source: Reuters
