Brazil's Dani Alves ruled out of 2018 World Cup

May 12 (UPI) -- Veteran defender Dani Alves will not be playing for Brazil during the 2018 World Cup.

The Brazilian federation released a statement confirming Alves' absence from the national team Friday.

"The patient underwent a detailed examination and confirmed the initial diagnosis of an anterior cruciate ligament injury, which required surgical treatment," the statement said.

"After exhausting all the alternatives of recovery within the term, the call-up of Daniel Alves was deemed impossible for the period of preparation, friendlies and, consequently, for the World Cup."

"The technical team of the Brazilian national team feels for the event and wishes Daniel Alves a prompt recovery so that his technique, commitment and leadership can return to the serve the national team as soon as possible."

Alves, 35, tore his ACL on Tuesday during Paris Saint-Germain's French Cup final victory against Les Herbiers. The defender has made 107 appearances for Brazil and played in the World Cup in 2014 against Germany. Brazil lost that semifinal game 7-1.

The Brazilians battle Switzerland in the group stage at 2 p.m. on June 17 at Rostov Arena in Rostov Oblast, Russia.

"As a result of the damage done to Dani Alves' right knee during the Coupe de France final, the latest tests have confirmed the initial diagnosis," PSG said in a statement. "However, the rest period required is incompatible with the constraints of optimal preparation for the coming World Cup."

"Under these conditions, the player, PSG's medical staff and Brazil's medical staff have decided that surgery is the best option. Dani Alves will be operated on when the condition of his knee permits."

PSG faces Rennes at 3 p.m. Saturday in Paris. Brazil's last World Cup title came in 2002.