Tite: Vinicius missed an opportunity and will have to play very well at Real Madrid to make the Copa America Brazilian National Team A clear message to the player

It seems as though Vinicius Junior's injury couldn't have come at a worse time as he now faces an uphill battle to be included in Brazil's Copa America squad for the summer.

The 18-year-old had shone when selected by Santiago Solari for Real Madrid but an injury to his right ankle ruled him out of participation and prevented him from debuting with his country's senior side.

"Vinicius missed an opportunity," Tite said as the latest break came to a close.

"He's going to have to play very well with his club [to go to the Copa America]."

The Real Madrid starlet had originally been included in Tite's plans for this international get together but injury ruled him out, leaving Ajax's David Neres to be included in his place.

Neres proved fundamental for the Selecao as they beat the Czech Republic 3-1, making Vinicius' task all the more complicated.

The teenager is expected to return with Madrid in mid-April, giving him only a handful of weeks to complete his recovery and prove his worth to his Brazil boss.