Brazil call up Endrick to replace injured Neymar for World Cup qualifiers

SAO PAULO: Brazil has called up teenage Real Madrid striker Endrick to replace the injured Neymar for this month’s World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina, the Brazilian FA announced on Friday.

Neymar, who was set to return to the national team after more than a year out due to a knee injury suffered in late 2023, has been ruled out once again after sustaining a muscle injury. The 33-year-old Santos forward will now miss Brazil’s crucial qualifiers.

Coach Dorival Jr has also made two other changes to the squad. Flamengo defender Alex Sandro replaces his injured teammate Danilo, while Olympique Lyonnais goalkeeper Lucas Perri steps in for Manchester City’s Ederson.

“Over the last few days, the Brazilian national team’s medical department has been updating us on the situation of all the players, especially Danilo, Neymar, and Ederson,” Dorival Jr stated in a CBF release.

Brazil will now look to young Endrick to provide attacking firepower as they prepare for two tough encounters in the South American qualifiers.(Reuters)