After Carlo Ancelotti left Real Madrid, he took charge of the Brazil national team. His main goal is clear: to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Just days into the job, he faces a major test. Brazil will play a World Cup qualifying doubleheader against Ecuador and Paraguay. For that reason, Ancelotti wasted no time and announced his first squad. The list raised eyebrows, especially with the absence of two major stars: Neymar Jr and Rodrygo.
Carlo did not stop there. He made more bold moves that reflect a shift in direction. He did not include Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson, a regular starter in recent years. At the same time, he brought back Casemiro, a familiar face from his Real Madrid days. He also included two young talents, Antony and 17-year-old William Estevao. With these choices, Carlo sends a clear message. He plans to blend experience with youth and bring fresh ideas to Brazil’s campaign.
Considering the latter, Carlo Ancelotti’s first call-up features a mix of established stars and exciting young talent. Here is how the squad shapes up for the doubleheader in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers:
- Goalkeepers: Alisson, Bento, Hugo Sosa.
- Defenders: Alex Sandro, Ribeiro, Lucas Beraldo, Carlos Augusto, Danilo, Leo Ortiz, Marquinhos, Vanderson, Wesley.
- Midfielders: Andreas Pereira, Andrey Santos, Bruno Guimaraes, Casemiro, Ederson, Gerson.
- Forwards: Antony, William Estevao, Gabriel Martinelli, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha, Richarlison, Vinicius Jr.
Carlo Ancelotti opens up on the reason behind Neymar Jr’s absence in his first call-up
Neymar Jr’s absence from Carlo Ancelotti’s first Brazil squad immediately sparked conversation across social media, with many fans speculating that it signaled the beginning of the end for his international career. However, Ancelotti moved quickly to shut down those rumors, offering a clear explanation for the star forward’s absence: “Neymar’s out of the list as he’s just returned from injury. I spoke to Ney and we’ve agreed on this,” Ancelotti said, via Fabrizio Romano.
Besides, Carlo confirmed that he is counting on the Santos FC star. He added that he will work to bring out his best version for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. These statements fueled excitement among national team fans, as they have consistently called for Neymar’s continued presence. After all, he remains the most influential and game-changing player on the roster.
Ancelotti also explained that Rodrygo missed the squad due to injury. On May 24, according to DAZN, the Real Madrid striker left training after feeling pain in the back of his left thigh. Moreover, the coach addressed the absences of Joelinton and Ederson. He stated that both players are also dealing with injuries, which ruled them out of the squad.