Ganso replaces Kaka in Brazil Copa squad
Brazil's fitness situation ahead of this summer's Copa American Centenario continues to worsen, with Orlando City FC midfielder Kaka the latest victim of an injury bug that has swept through the Canarinho's camp.
Kaka, 34, has been replaced by Sao Paulo's attacking midfielder Paulo Henrique Ganso in Tony Dunga's squad in advance of Brazil's Copa opener against Ecuador on June 4.
The Brazilian Confederation has confirmed that Kaká has sustained a muscle injury and will not be participating in @CA2016.
— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) June 1, 2016
Tough break for Kaka, who, with the injury, is likely to never play in a Copa America with his career approaching its twilight. Kaka was initially summoned by Dunga to replace Bayern Munich winger Douglas Costa.
Related: Kaka gets Brazil Copa call-up, replacing injured Douglas Costa
Ganso, 26, is a versatile footballer who can play anywhere in the midfield, boasting both playmaking skills and a thunderous shot. He was Neymar's partner in crime at Santos, where the two led the Brazilian giant to a Copa Liberatadores and Copa do Brasil before a transfer to cross-state rival Sao Paulo.
Brazil will be looking to win its eighth Copa America title, third behind Argentina's 14 and Uruguay's 15 titles.
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