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What's the story?
Brazil have suffered a huge blow just days before the start of the FIFA U-17 World Cup. In their quest for their fourth title in this category, the Selecao had selected a strong squad to fight it out in India. But one of their crucial players and the World Cup's star attraction, Vinicius Junior will give the tournament a miss after not receiving permission from his parent club, Flamengo. The Brazilian club has revealed that the decision was taken after consultation with the Brazilian board and the player himself.
Reinaldo Rueda, the Flamengo manager talked about this issue yesterday in his press conference. He said, "The situation was analyzed with the board, the commission and Vinicius. We want the best for him, he is a conscious, intelligent player, important to the national team. But he did not participate in the weeks of training with the U-17 squad. We hope the team is successful in the World Cup without Vinicius."
In case you didn't know...
Vinicius Junior was initially expected to arrive in India a few days later after the Brazilian squad. His absence had raised a few questions and today the real reason came to the fore. Vinicius was a major billing at the upcoming World Cup with the teenager securing a move to Real Madrid last summer in a deal worth €46 million. He will join the Spanish giants as soon as he turns 18.
The heart of the matter
Earlier it was speculated that the Brazil football federation (CBF) and Flamengo had an agreement about the player travelling to India for the World Cup. Vinicius also had a visa ready to fly to the host nation. But Flamengo changed their decision after a loss in the Copa do Brasil final to Cruzeiro. It was a controversial game where Flamengo went out on penalties. It is also said that Real Madrid had no say in this matter with Vinicius still being a Flamengo player.
What next?
Brazil have already arrived in India and recently beat New Zealand 2-1 in a practice game at Mumbai. Brazil are in group D along with Spain, DPR Korea and Niger and will begin their campaign against Spain on October 7.
Author's take
Flamengo and the board (CBF) have dealt a huge blow to not only the image of the FIFA U-17 World Cup by taking away one of its main attractions but have also disrupted the tactics and strategies of the Brazilian team at the World Cup. U-17 coach, Carlos Amadeu will not be a happy man!
