Brazil has summoned teenage striker Endrick from Real Madrid to fill in for the injured Neymar for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, as announced by the country’s Football Association on Friday.
Neymar, who plays for Santos, was poised to make his comeback to the Brazil squad after being sidelined for over a year due to a knee injury he sustained in late 2023.
Unfortunately, the 33-year-old forward has been ruled out of the qualifying matches against Colombia and Argentina after picking up a muscle injury.
Coach Dorival Jr has also brought in Flamengo defender Alex Sandro to replace his teammate Danilo, alongside Olympique Lyonnais goalkeeper Lucas Perri, who steps in for Manchester City’s Ederson.
“In recent days, the medical staff of the Brazilian national team has provided updates on the condition of all players, particularly Danilo, Neymar, and Ederson,” Dorival Jr stated in a release from the CBF.
“Following their assessments, the medical team has advised us on each player’s situation, leading to the call-up of Lucas Perri from Lyon, Alex Sandro from Flamengo, and Endrick from Real Madrid.”
Brazil currently sits fifth in the CONMEBOL standings, amassing 18 points from 12 matches. They will host fourth-placed Colombia on March 21st and then face leaders Argentina five days later.
The top six teams in the standings will secure automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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