Real Madrid defender Marcelo has been ruled out of the Copa America this summer and will not feature for Brazil.
The left-back had forced his way back into Brazil’s squad after initially being one of the high-profile casualties following last summer’s disastrous World Cup showing.
The 27-year-old was selected for the tournament but having been assessed by national team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar, has been ruled out due to a back injury. He has been replaced by Geferson, who will act as cover for regular left-back Felipe Luis.
Lasmar gave an interview to Globo Esporte confirming the injury, saying: “We were told he was injured jumping and had been suffering from a severe pain in his lower back. He did some tests and was due to start start training with us on Monday. He had roughly three weeks of training, but now he can’t walk. There was no other solution [than him pulling out].”
Marcelo was the number one left back at Los Blancos under Carlo Ancelotti this season, featuring 53 times and scoring four goals along the way. He joined the club in 2007 and has made 320 appearances in all. He’s picked up various medals in his time at the club, including the Champions League, La Liga, Copa del Rey, European Super Cup and World Club Cup.
