Football
ESPN staff 6y

Real Madrid signing Vinicius Junior will not play in U17 World Cup

Flamengo forward Vinicius Junior will not take part in the Under-17 World Cup in India, Brazil's football federation has confirmed.

Vinicius, who was sold to Real Madrid for €45 million in May but has remained with Flamengo on loan, had been scheduled to join the Brazil U17s in India this weekend following the Rio de Janeiro club's loss in the Copa do Brasil final on Wednesday, however the Brazilian federation confirmed those plans had changed on Friday.

"Yes, it is confirmed," a CBF spokesman told ESPN.

"We had made all the protocol to have him, the player had the visa to India, we were expecting him for tomorrow morning, but today, Flamengo, after losing the Copa do Brasil final, decided to not allow him to travel."

Speaking after training on Friday, Flamengo manager Reinaldo Rueda revealed the club's reasoning to keep Vinicius at home.

"It was a situation analysed by the board, with the coaches and with Vinicius," he said. "We want the best for him. He's a conscientious, smart player, important for the national team.

"But he has not taken part in the weeks of preparation. He knows that he can come and help, but also wants to respect that.

"He knows that the national team has good players and he will stay with us. We hope the national team has success in the World Cup."

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