Brazil's struggle with injuries continue to grow as now their star defender Dani Alves ruled out of the 2018 FIFA World Cup on Friday after he suffered a knee injury while playing for the French football giants Paris Saint-Germain. The former Barcelona defender suffered the injury in the French Cup final match against Les Herbiers on Tuesday that PSG eventually won 2-0.
The 35-year-old Brazilian defender was examined by Dr. Rodrigo Lasmar, who said he will be sidelined for about six months. "It is impossible to call Dani Alves for the period of preparation, friendlies and, consequently, the World Cup," the CBF stated as quoted by AP.
"All possibilities for his recovery being exhausted, it will be impossible to select Daniel Alves... for the World Cup," the statement read further.
Brazil are hoping for their sixth title after their outstanding run in the qualifier stage, where they were table toppers of their group. Brazil World cup journey will start from 14 June.
Brazil legend Pele also appeared upset from this news as the three time World Cup winner tweeted, "I am so sad to hear this. Footballers hate missing games but I know first-hand that missing #WorldCup games is the worst feeling."
This was a major setback for Brazil as their captain Neymar Jr is still recovering from his foot injury. He hasn't played since March and it will be difficult for the world's most expensive player to get into the form just after the long injury.
Dani Alves is a regular starter for Brazil in international football so it will be tough for the management to find his replacement as other options are not on the level of the PSG right back. Danilo and Rafinha have played few matches under coach Tite, who counted on Alves as a leader. Former Brazil player Junior believed Danilo was the most likely replacement.
This injury may end the Brazilian World cup dream as it is taunted as his last world cup. In his 17- year long glorius career has won record 38 trophies.
Brazil coach Tite will name the World Cup squad on Monday. While his PSG coach Unai Emery said he sympathised with Alves missing what would have been his last World Cup.
