Rafael called in for Brazil friendlies

Manchester United right-back Rafael will replace Dani Alves in Brazil’s squad for the team’s upcoming friendlies.

The Barcelona defender will spend up to eight weeks on the sidelines after fracturing his right clavicle in a training session earlier this week, which opened a spot in the squad for the country’s next four games.

Rafael, who broke into United’s first team in 2008, made 18 competitive appearances for the Red Devils this term.

The 21-year-old will have the chance to debut for Brazil’s senior team after previously featuring for the Under-17 side.

The five-time World Cup champions will take on Denmark on May 26 before meeting the United States (May 30), Mexico (June 3) and Argentina (June 9) as they prepare for the Olympic Games in London.