Carlo Ancelotti Announces Replacement for Injured Wesley Ahead of World Cup
Wesley had barely been on the field 15 minutes when Brazil's World Cup preparations took a difficult turn. The 22-year-old Roma defender went down clutching his left groin during Brazil's 2-1 warm-up win over Egypt, visibly emotional as he was helped off.
Ancelotti confirmed afterward that Wesley would undergo tests, and the country held its breath waiting for results. But the news that came back wasn't good.
An MRI scan confirmed a muscle injury to the adductor in his left thigh, ruling Wesley out of the 2026 World Cup entirely. It was a brutal outcome for a young player who had been expected to start at right-back for Brazil when the tournament gets underway.
Brazil moved fast and on Sunday, Carlo Ancelotti is already ready with a replacement, per Fabrizio Romano.
Brazil Call Up Ederson as Wesley Replacement for 2026 World Cup Squad
Atalanta midfielder Ederson received the call-up, joining Ancelotti's 26-man roster in Wesley's place. The 26-year-old has earned three caps for Brazil and is set to link up with the squad in the United States on Monday.
His inclusion comes at an interesting moment given he's also on the verge of completing a move to Manchester United. The two clubs have agreed on a deal worth a fixed €40.5 million with an additional €4.5 million in performance-related bonuses.
Breaking: Carlo Ancelotti call Éderson to replace Wesley at the World Cup for Brazil!
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 7, 2026
Atalanta's midfielder joins immediately and then he will sign as Manchester United new player in July. #MUFCpic.twitter.com/2vkDkGdoRC
With Wesley out, Ancelotti now has decisions to make at right-back. Two names stand out. Danilo, the former Manchester City veteran, brings experience and respect within the squad but turns 35 during the tournament and has been more of a rotational piece at Flamengo than a regular starter.
Roger Ibanez is the other option, a center-back by trade whose recovery speed and mobility make him a viable fill-in at full-back.
Ederson's arrival also helps Ancelotti on the tactical side. Brazil's preferred shape remains a 4-2-4 but there's been growing interest in shifting to a three-man midfield against tougher opposition. Having Ederson available gives the coaching staff the flexibility to make that switch without being stretched thin elsewhere.
Wesley's absence surely stings. But Brazil have responded quickly and Ancelotti now has more options heading into the World Cup than he did a week ago.
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This story was originally published June 7, 2026 at 10:01 AM.