Without Real Madrid Star: Carlo Ancelotti Kicks Off Brazil Tenure With Surprising Squad Decisions

Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti's officially named his first Brazil squad for the 2026 World cup qualifiers marking the beginning of his highly anticipated reign with the Selecao.

Rodrygo Left Out, Neymar Still Injured

The most notable omission's Rodrygo Goes who was rested due to physical fatigue. Meanwhile Neymar continues his recovery from injury and Endrick also misses out due to fitness concerns.

Only Vinicius Junior represents Real Madrid in this 23 man list while Casemiro returns after being absent since Oct 2023.

Brazil’s Fixtures & Preparation

• 5 June vs Ecuador in Guayaquil
• 10 June vs Paraguay in Sao Paulo

Preparations begin next Monday at Corinthians training center before the squad travels to Ecuador.

Ancelotti’s First Words as Brazil Coach

"It’s honor to lead the best national team in the world. I’m ready to work hard to bring Brazil back to the top" said Ancelotti at his presentation.

He’ll be supported by Paul Clement and Francisco Mauri as assistants with Mino Fulco, Simone Montanaro and Cristiano Nunes handling fitness & performance roles.

Current Standing: Brazil sits 4th in CONMEBOL qualifiers with 21 point aiming to bounce back from their recent defeat to Argentina.

Full Brazil Squad

• Goalkeepers:

Alisson (Liverpool), Bento (Al Nassr), Hugo Souza (Corinthians)

• Defenders:

Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Alexsandro (Lille), Beraldo (PSG), Carlos Augusto (Inter), Danilo (Flamengo), Leo Ortiz (Flamengo), Marquinhos (PSG), Vanderson (Monaco), Wesley (Flamengo)

• Midfielders:

Andreas Pereira (Fulham), Andrey Santos (Strasbourg), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Casemiro (Man United), Ederson (Atalanta), Gerson (Flamengo)

• Forwards:

Antony (Real Betis), Estevao (Palmeiras), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Matheus Cunha (Wolves), Raphinha (Barcelona), Richarlison (Tottenham), Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid)

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.