RIO DE JANEIRO, July 22: Brazil have criticised Real Madrid’s decision to pull forward Robinho out of the squad for the Olympic Games, saying the timing of the Spanish club’s decision had disrupted their preparations.

Real Madrid said earlier on Monday they had asked Brazil to release Robinho, who has been included as one of three over-age players, because the 24-year-old is suffering from a groin injury.

But in its response, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) avoided any reference to a request, describing Robinho’s pullout as a decision and making no reference to an injury.

“The CBF registers its discontent in relation to the last-minute decision taken by the Real Madrid directors, not just because of the disruption caused to the planning and preparation of the Brazil team but also because it considers the decision to be disrespectful to the.... Brazilian supporters,” said the CBF in a statement.

“The CBF publicly recognises Real Madrid’s right not to release Robinho for the Beijing Olympics,” added the statement on its website.

“But the CBF questions the fact that the Spanish club announced the non-release on the day the delegation is due to embark for Singapore (for a warm-up).....a fact aggravated because it has been general knowledge since July 7 that Robinho has been called up for the Olympics.”

The CBF added that last year it had allowed Robinho to play in Real Madrid’s final match of the Spanish season even though it fell within the 15-day preparation period for the Copa America.“One year later, the CBF has not been given the reciprocity which we expected would be natural,” said the statement.

Cruzeiro midfielder Ramires was named as Robinho’s replacement in the squad.

The Olympic football tournament features under-23 teams with three overage players allowed per side. FIFA rules oblige clubs to release under-23 players but not those over the age limit, such as Robinho.Two other Brazilian players have become involved in a tug-of-war with their clubs despite being under the age limit.

Defender Rafinho missed Schalke 04’s training on Monday after the Bundesliga club refused to release him for the Olympics.

Werder Bremen have also said that midfielder Diego would be staying in Germany.

—Reuters