Brazil are the hot favourites to win this winter’s World Cup in Qatar and Manchester United have four players in their 26-man squad, with the entire quartet playing so far.
Casemiro has been the standout figure in the Brazil side but Antony and Fred have also started games, with loanee Alex Telles also featuring in their closing group game against Cameroon.
The left-back is currently out on loan at Sevilla after failing to impress Erik ten Hag over the summer but his form for the Andalusian side earned him a place in Tite’s final squad.
Alex Sandro, the Juventus star, is the first-choice option at left-back but with qualification already secured, Telles started against Cameroon.
His first start in a World Cup is one he will want to forget sooner rather than later, however, as he was withdrawn from the game in the second half due to an injury.
The former Porto captain was visibly distraught after sustaining the injury and now, there is an update on Telles’ condition.
According to Goal Brasil, Telles is one of two players to come out of the 1-0 defeat with their World Cup hopes in tatters, with Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus also sustaining a tournament-ending injury.
As per the report, Telles’ case is thought to be more severe and his condition will be monitored before a decision is made. Surgery has not been ruled out.
SN’s verdict…
Going to the World Cup must be a special feeling for a footballer and to have it taken away from you by an injury is heartbreaking – hopefully, the injury will not rule Telles out for long although he may miss the rest of this tournament.
Regardless, it will be difficult for him to reclaim his place at United. Ten Hag has made it clear that he prefers Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw over the Brazil international.
With just a year left on his contract when he returns, United may decide to sell.
