Brazil duo Raphinha and Gabriel Magalhaes have both withdrawn from Tite's 25-man squad ahead of Thursday's 2022 World Cup qualifier against Chile.

Leeds United winger Raphinha has tested positive for COVID-19 and will remain in the UK, while Arsenal centre-back Gabriel is unavailable as he and his girlfriend are expecting their first child.

Atletico Madrid centre-back Felipe has been called up for the first time since June last year to replace Gabriel, and the 32-year-old will be competing with Thiago Silva, Marquinhos and Eder Militao for a place in the starting lineup – the latter is available to play after serving a one-match suspension against Paraguay last month.

Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson is another who has pulled out of the Brazil squad due to illness, and although Atletico Mineiro's Everson has been called up as his replacement, Liverpool stopper Alisson Becker is set to wear the number one jersey on Thursday.

Emerson Royal, who like Militao was also suspended for their last match, has not been called up to Tite's squad, with Danilo and Dani Alves to battle for the right-back position, while either Alex Telles or Guilherme Arana is set to start at left-back.

In midfield, Casemiro could return to the first XI ahead of Fabinho, while Lucas Paqueta and Philippe Coutinho may retain their places ahead of Fred, Arthur and Bruno Guimaraes.

Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar missed the last three World Cup qualifiers due to injury, but the forward is expected to return to the first XI, potentially starting alongside Richarlison and Vinicius Junior.

Roberto Firmino and Gabriel Jesus have not been selected in Tite's squad this month, but attackers Antony, Rodrygo and Gabriel Martinelli could all feature on Thursday, the latter hoping to receive his first senior cap for the Selecao.

Brazil possible starting lineup: Alisson; Danilo, T. Silva, Marquinhos, Telles; Paqueta, Casemiro, Coutinho; Vinicius Jr, Richarlison, Neymar

Written by
Oliver Thomas