Ancelotti Aims to Restore Brazil’s Glory at 2026 World Cup

Carlo Ancelotti Unveiled as Brazil Head Coach
Legendary manager Carlo Ancelotti has officially taken charge of Brazil. In a press conference at CBF headquarters, he called it an “honour” to lead “the best team in the world” and vowed to win the 2026 World Cup.

Decorated Career Comes to Selecao
Ancelotti leaves Real Madrid after four successful years. His résumé includes three Champions League titles, two La Liga crowns, and top-flight league triumphs in England, France, Germany, and Italy — making him one of football’s most decorated managers.

Ancelotti Replaces Dorival Junior
Ancelotti replaces Dorival Junior, sacked after Brazil’s 4-1 loss to Argentina. That defeat capped a stretch of disappointing results. Former coach Luiz Felipe Scolari welcomed Ancelotti, who now leads a team desperate to return to international dominance.

First Tests: Ecuador and Paraguay
Ancelotti’s first games will be crucial World Cup qualifiers. Brazil visit Ecuador on 5 June, followed by a home clash against Paraguay on 10 June. The Selecao are fourth in South American qualifying with just four games remaining.

Brazil’s Form Raises Concerns
Since losing to Croatia on penalties at the 2022 World Cup, Brazil have looked shaky. They’ve lost five of their last 14 matches, conceding 16 goals, and risk missing direct qualification unless they find consistency under Ancelotti.

Casemiro and Richarlison Return

Manchester United’s Casemiro and Tottenham’s Richarlison return after long absences. Both were last seen during Brazil’s October 2023 defeat to Uruguay. Their experience is expected to stabilize the squad during the final stretch of World Cup qualification.

Ancelotti Announces First Squad
Ancelotti named a 25-man squad including Liverpool’s Alisson, Fulham’s Andreas Pereira, Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes, Arsenal’s Martinelli, and Wolves’ Matheus Cunha. The selection reflects both talent and versatility across Europe’s top leagues as Brazil eyes a strong qualification finish.

Neymar Absent Due to Injury
Star forward Neymar remains sidelined with a thigh injury sustained in April. Though he recently came off the bench for Santos, Ancelotti opted not to rush his return, focusing instead on a balanced, fit squad for June’s qualifiers.

Antony to Join After Final
Manchester United’s Antony, currently on loan at Real Betis, will join the squad after playing in the Conference League final against Chelsea. His form and fitness will be assessed before potentially featuring under Ancelotti’s new system.

Full Squad Breakdown Released
Goalkeepers: Alisson, Bento, Hugo Souza.
Defenders: Alex Sandro, Danilo, Leo Ortiz, Wesley, Alexsandro, Beraldo, Marquinhos, Augusto, Vanderson.
Midfielders: Pereira, Santos, Guimaraes, Casemiro, Ederson, Gerson.
Forwards: Antony, Estevao, Martinelli, Cunha, Raphinha, Richarlison, Vinicius Jr.

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Carlo Ancelotti: Brazil ‘best in the world’, says new national team boss – BBC Sport