Rafinha has withdrawn from the Brazil squad and has applied for citizenship in Germany in hopes of switching his national team allegiances.

Rafinha is Bayern Munich's right-back and Philipp Lahm suggested him as a possible replacement on the Germany squad.

Rafinha had previously featured in a friendly prior to the 2014 World Cup, and in a friendly against Sweden in March 2008.

Rafinha was initially delighted about the call-up and took to Twitter to say that "it's a wonder to be able to return to serve the Brazilian team." Despite the sudden change of heart, the Brazilian FA (CBF) has released a statement indicating their support for the decision.