Everton have allowed Richarlison to miss the start of their new campaign.
New manager Rafael Benitez ratified the decision to grant the forward a temporary absence to represent Brazil at this summer’s Olympic Games.
The Blues are under no obligation to release Richarlison to his country for the tournament in Japan due to it not appearing on FIFA’s official match calendar.
However Goodison Park chiefs afforded the 24-year-old the chance to play for the Selecao despite it effectively ruling him out of their new season opening.
Everton officially kick off their 2021/22 Premier League schedule on August 14, a week after the Olympics end, in a home encounter with Southampton.
Richarlison is currently with the Brazil squad as they bid to retain their Copa America crown ahead of Monday’s semi-final against Peru in their homeland.
Colombian defender Yerry Mina will also be vying to reach the showpiece as his country takes on Argentina in the tournament’s other last four match-up.
Like Mina, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Jordan Pickford are set for staggered returns as a result of their respective involvement for England at Euro 2020.
Benitez made acquaintance with the bulk of Everton’s first-team squad on Monday as players reported back to Finch Farm for pre-season training.