RIVALDO MUST PLAY FOR BRAZIL
Monday has seen the samba star's status seemingly change, although this would appear to be based on reports originating from Spain, not Brazil.
Liberdirecto.com report that the co-ordinator of the Brazilian squad, Antonio Lopes, confirmed that coach Luiz Felipe Scolari wanted Rivaldo to stay with the national team in an effort to build up team spirit ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
This will see Rivaldo play against Panama and not Wisla Cracovia in the Champions League, as Barcelona go in search of securing their Champions League place.
Other reports had stated Rivaldo had been released from this commitment by the CBF, however, Lopes was adamant, saying: "Rivaldo has to appear at 7 tomorrow (Tuesday) at the Curitiba airport.
"He has not been released from his obligation. If he does not appear, the CBF will will request the automatic elimination of Barcelona from the Champions League."
To honour his commitment, Rivaldo will have to fly on Monday night to arrive in time and the story is the same for the three German clubs, Hertha Berlin, Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen who are also refusing to allow their internationals to travel.
