Dani Alves Out at Least 3 Weeks with Knee Injury, Could Be Fit for World Cup

Paris Saint-Germain defender Dani Alves has been ruled out of action for three weeks with a knee injury but could be fit for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

The Brazilian picked up the problem during Tuesday's Coupe de France final win over Les Herbiers and had to be substituted.

A club spokesperson offered an update on his injury, per Adriana Garcia at ESPN FC:

"Following Daniel Alves' right knee injury, which occurred yesterday during the French Cup final, the tests performed today showed a high detachment of the anterior cruciate ligament with posterolateral sprain. His condition requires a minimum of three weeks of care before re-evaluation."

Should Alves recover according to schedule, he should be fit before the end of the month. Brazil begin their World Cup campaign against Switzerland on June 17. Tite's team are also scheduled to play friendlies before the tournament. They face Croatia on June 3 and Austria on June 10.

Football writer Rupert Fryer said he should be back in time for the friendlies:

Alves is a crucial figure for Brazil, and they will be desperate for him to be fit in time for the tournament. The right-back is an important part of the defence and also provides an attacking threat down the right flank. Brazil also have no established replacement for the 35-year-old.

His experience is another key asset, and he knows exactly what it takes to win titles. The Brazilian is one of the most decorated players in the game, per Squawka Football:

Brazil go into the tournament as strong contenders to lift the trophy, but their preparations have been beset by injury concerns. Star man Neymar has been out of action since February, when he suffered a fractured metatarsal that required surgery.

Team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar has said the forward is progressing well, according to MailOnline's Jordan Seward.

Neymar has now returned to Paris from Brazil where he was recuperating and is looking in good shape:

The 26-year-old is absolutely crucial to Brazil's hopes of success in Russia this season, and he carries the hopes of a nation on his shoulders.

Alves is also a key member of the team, and Tite will be desperate to have both players fit and in form by the time the tournament starts in June.