With the 2026 World Cup in North America fast approaching, defender Wesley (AS Roma) has withdrawn from Brazil's national team due to injury. In his place, midfielder Ederson (Atalanta), reportedly poised to join Manchester United in England, has earned his first World Cup opportunity.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced Sunday (Korea time) that "an MRI examination revealed damage to the adductor muscle in Wesley's left thigh," adding that "based on the diagnosis, we have decided to call up Ederson as his replacement."
Wesley started at right back the previous day in a friendly against Egypt (Brazil won 2-1) held at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, Ohio, but injured his thigh and was substituted by Danilo in the 17th minute of the first half.
He left the pitch in tears during Brazil's final friendly before the start of the World Cup, suggesting the injury was serious, and his participation in the tournament was ultimately ruled out.
Ederson, meanwhile, has gained an unexpected opportunity, according to the BBC. Reportedly having agreed to a transfer fee of 35 million pounds (about 72.8 billion won) with his current club Atalanta (Italy), his move to Manchester United is expected to be completed in early July.
Ederson, who last played for Brazil's national team in March 2025, will immediately join the squad to prepare for the World Cup.
Brazil, led by manager Carlo Ancelotti, will begin this North American tournament with a Group G match against Morocco on June 14 in New York. They will then face Haiti on June 20 in Philadelphia, and Scotland on June 25 in Miami.
