Brazil will not release Robinho to play for Real Madrid in Sunday's Spanish League decider but have asked him instead to join their Copa America training camp immediately.

"The Brazilian Football Confederation's position is that we are not releasing the player and we are going to exercise our rights," said national team superviser America Faria.

Faria said under FIFA rules Robinho had to be free from club commitments for 14 days before the Copa, which is an official tournament.

The Copa America kicks off in Venezuela on June 26 and Brazil face a tough match against Mexico the following day as they begin the defence of the title they won in Peru three years ago.

Real Madrid will win their first league title in four years if they beat mid-table Real Mallorca at home in the final game of the season on Sunday.

Brazil have already lost Ronaldinho and Kaka, who have both asked for a rest, while 32-year-old midfielder Ze Roberto announced his international retirement last week shortly after being named in the squad.

(China Daily via Reuters June 13, 2007)