By Stephen Simon
Brazil have called up Atalanta midfielder Ederson to replace injured defender Wesley in their squad for the upcoming World Cup, handing the midfielder a timely international opportunity as he closes in on a move to Manchester United.
The 26-year-old is expected to join the Premier League giants after reports indicated that Manchester United had reached an agreement with Atalanta for his transfer. The deal is said to be worth €40.5 million (£35 million) with an additional €4.5 million (£4 million) in performance-related add-ons.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced on Sunday that Wesley would miss the tournament after medical examinations revealed a muscle injury to the adductor muscle in his left thigh.
The 22-year-old Roma full-back had been tipped to start at right-back for Brazil under new head coach Carlo Ancelotti, making his withdrawal a significant setback for both player and country ahead of the competition.
Ederson, who has earned three senior caps for Brazil, is expected to join the squad in the United States on Monday as preparations intensify for the tournament.
Before Wesley’s withdrawal, Brazil’s 26-man squad featured nine recognised defenders but only five natural midfielders, including Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Danilo, Fabinho and Lucas Paqueta. Ederson’s inclusion is expected to provide greater balance in the middle of the park.
Ancelotti now faces a selection dilemma at right-back, with Flamengo veteran Danilo and Al Ahli defender Roger Ibanez emerging as the leading candidates to fill the void left by Wesley’s injury. While Danilo brings experience and leadership, Ibanez offers pace and versatility despite primarily operating as a centre-back.
Brazil have been drawn in Group C, where they will face Morocco on June 13, Haiti on June 20 and Scotland on June 24. While Wesley’s injury represents a major blow, Ederson’s arrival could prove crucial if Ancelotti opts for a midfield-heavy approach against stronger opponents during the tournament.
