Carlo Ancelotti has named his first Brazil squad since officially taking over as head coach, selecting 26 players for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Ecuador and Paraguay.
Midfielder Casemiro has been recalled to the national team for the first time since October 2023. Speaking about the decision, Ancelotti said:
“In my opinion, he is a great player. I was lucky to be with him. I think the national team needs this type of player who has charisma, personality, and talent. Brazil has always had a lot of talent. In modern football, you have to add attitude, commitment, and sacrifice — and Casemiro has that.”
One of the players excluded from the squad is Brazilian football icon Neymar. Ancelotti cited injury concerns as the reason for his omission.
“Neymar had an injury recently. Everyone knows that Neymar is a very important player — he always has been and always will be,” the coach explained.
Another surprising absentee is Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, a player Ancelotti during his time with Los Blancos. The Italian said he wanted to give the player time to recover after a physically and mentally demanding season.
Endrick was also left out, the decision raised confusion among fans, especially since Ancelotti was his coach at Real Madrid until just last week. When asked about it, Ancelotti said:
“He barely plays for his club.”
Brazil Squad for World Cup Qualifiers vs Ecuador and Paraguay:
Goalkeepers:
Alisson, Bento, Hugo Souza
Defenders:
Alex Sandro, Ayrton Lucas Ribeiro, Beraldo, Carlos Augusto, Danilo, Lucas Veríssimo (Ortiz), Marquinhos, Vanderson, Wesley
Midfielders:
Andreas Pereira, Andrey Santos, Bruno Guimarães, Casemiro, Ederson, Gerson
Forwards:
Antony, Estevão, Gabriel Martinelli, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha, Richarlison, Vinícius Júnior
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