Vinicius Junior: Flamengo do not allow player to represent Brazil at U17 World Cup
Vinicius did not travel to India with the rest of the Under-17 squad, despite having a ticket for the flight and a place in the squad.
Vinicius Junior will not form part of the Brazil Under-17 squad for the World Cup in India, which will take place between 6 – 28 October.
Flamengo prevent Vinicius Junior playing in World Cup
Flamengo confirmed on Friday that the 17-year-old will remain with the club. Vinicius Junior, who signed for Real Madrid in the summer but will remain in Brazil for the time being, already had a ticket for the flight to India and was due to travel on Friday.
The Brazilian Football Federation (CFB) had been in discussion with Flamengo since the beginning of September in an attempt to secure the player’s release for the World Cup. The Rio de Janeiro-based club were only willing to release Vinicius if they won the Copa de Brazil. They played the final on Wednesday, and lost on penalties to Cruzeiro. Vinicius did not play a part.
CBF 'deeply disappointed' by the decision
“I spoke with the Flamengo directors,” said Edu Gaspar of the CBF, “I don’t agree, I’m deeply disappointed by this decision. To base the liberation of a player on a defeat or a victory is sad. Vinicius had his ticket in Sao Paolo, he showed his happiness and satisfaction in being called up for the national team. He was enthusiastic. Only common sense from Flamengo was missing.”
Brazil will travel to India with 20 players, rather than the 21-man squad they had intended to take. Vinicius has mainly been operating has an impact substitute for Flamengo, and he will be available for six Brazilian Championship matches as a result of not travelling to India.
