Brazil's World Cup hopes have taken yet another devastating blow. After already losing Rodrygo and Eder Militão to serious injuries, the Seleção will now have to cope without another key player for the tournament.

According to reports from Fabrizio Romano and Brazilian outlet Globoesporte, rising star Estevão has been ruled out of the World Cup. The young prodigy suffered a relapse of a thigh injury and simply won't have enough time to recover before the competition kicks off.

This is particularly painful for Brazil's attack, which has been struggling for rhythm lately. Estevão had been a bright spark, scoring five goals in his last six appearances for the national team. His absence leaves a significant creative void on the flank.

But could this misfortune open the door for a fairytale return? Speculation is already mounting around the possibility of Neymar making a miraculous comeback. According to Fabrizio Romano, the veteran superstar has been included in Brazil's extended preliminary squad.

As the Seleção scrambles to reshuffle their plans, one thing is clear: the road to the World Cup just got a whole lot tougher for the five-time champions.