Why Brazil aren't wearing their iconic yellow shirts against England in Wembley friendly - explained

This encounter marks the first time in seven years that England will host the Selecao, adding anticipation to the clash between two footballing powerhouses. However, fans expecting to see Brazil donning their famous yellow shirts, synonymous with football legends like Pele, Ronaldo, and Ronaldinho, will be in for a surprise - as the five-time World Champions will showcase their blue away strip.

The decision to wear blue against England and yellow against Spain in the upcoming friendly matches is a deliberate move by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and Nike so that the fans can have a look at both the home and away kits in the last international window before the Copa America later this summer. Nonetheless, England will stick to their white jersey which has faced flak from several quarters due to the revamped St. George's Cross on the back of the shirt.

England are set to unveil their new purple away kit when they take on Belgium at Wembley next week. They have been in stellar form in the recent past and are yet to lose a match since their 2-1 loss to France in the 2022 World Cup quarterfinals.

Brazil will be without several key players like Neymar, Gabriel, Marquinhos, Casemiro, Gabriel Martinelli, Alisson Becker, and Ederson as they are recovering from their respective injuries. Needless to say, it will be a stern test for manager Dorival Junior, who will be leading his first match on Saturday evening after succeeding Fernando Diniz.