Brazil Loses Right Back Wesley to Thigh Injury Days Before World Cup

Brazil's preparations for the FIFA World Cup have been dealt a fresh blow right back Wesley has been ruled out of the tournament with a left thigh muscle injury, less than a week before the team's opening match against Morocco.

Wesley picked up the injury during Brazil's friendly against Egypt on Saturday night in Cleveland. He left the field early and subsequent imaging confirmed the injury was serious enough to end his World Cup campaign.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed the news on Sunday, adding midfielder Éderson, 26 to the 26-player squad as his replacement. Éderson is set to travel to the United States and join the group immediately.

"Wesley is an athlete loved by the group and will always be considered part of this team that seeks the six-time world championship," the CBF said in a statement.

Brazil opens its World Cup group-stage campaign on Saturday at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The Wesley development adds to growing injury concerns surrounding the squad. Veteran forward Neymar, 34 did not travel to Cleveland with the rest of the group and is currently sidelined with a calf injury. His availability for the Morocco match remains uncertain.

Brazil, one of the pre-tournament favourites and chasing a record sixth world title, now faces the challenge of managing two significant injury setbacks in the days leading up to their first competitive match.