Brazil’s national soccer team encountered another setback in their search for defensive stability when Wesley was removed from their World Cup roster on Sunday following a left thigh muscle injury, prompting officials to bring in Atalanta midfielder Ederson as his replacement.
The AS Roma defender, who served as the sole dedicated right back on Carlo Ancelotti’s 26-player roster, sustained the injury during Saturday’s 2-1 exhibition victory against Egypt in Cleveland, according to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
With Wesley sidelined, Ancelotti will need to rely on adaptable center-backs Danilo and Ibanez to cover the right flank position as Brazil gears up for their Group C tournament debut against Morocco on Saturday.
“The MRI scan revealed a muscle injury to the adductor muscle in his left thigh,” the CBF said in a statement.
“The CBF regrets the injury. Wesley is a player much loved by the squad and will always be considered part of this team as it seeks to win its sixth World Cup title.”
Officials confirmed that Ederson will arrive to join the team in the United States on Monday.
The five-time World Cup champions are scheduled to compete against Morocco, Haiti and Scotland in Group C play.
