Atalanta saw a player from its squad reinforce the Brazilian national team in a World Cup for the first time. Éderson replaces right-back Wesley, who was cut due to injury.
Midfielder Éderson, 26, was called up on Sunday (7) by coach Carlo Ancelotti for the 2026 World Cup. He steps in for Wesley of Roma, who suffered a left adductor muscle injury during a friendly against Egypt. The call-up marks the first time Atalanta has sent a player to the Brazilian national team in World Cups. The Italian club has no Serie A titles and has stood out recently with a Europa League win. Éderson has only three appearances for the senior national team. Ancelotti chose to strengthen the midfield, which includes Casemiro, Fabinho, Bruno Guimarães, Danilo Santos and Lucas Paquetá, instead of calling another right-back. The player, who is in the process of transferring to Manchester United for up to 44.5 million euros, debuted for the national team in June 2024 against Mexico.