Brazil’s national team is automatically one of the favorites at every World Cup, even though the ‘verdeamarela’ is far from living its best moment. The individual quality of its players and having an experienced and successful coach on the bench is a guarantee of offensive verticality, but now Carlo Ancelotti is asking his players for something more.
Carlo Ancelotti wants a Brazil with the essence of Carnival
Ancelotti has made it clear since his arrival that he wants a team that reflects the Brazilian DNA. Inspired by his cultural experience in the country, the coach is committed to an offensive, attractive and well-organised style.
Brazil’s DNA is talent, energy and joy… I want to compare Brazilian football with Carnival
Far from being just a spectacle, Ancelotti‘s plan also includes structure. The coach is looking to balance creativity with discipline, order with Joga bonito, something he considers key to competing at the highest level at the 2026 World Cup.
One of the most striking aspects of his proposal is the offensive approach. Ancelotti plans to use a forward line with up to four players, taking advantage of the enormous quality that Brazil has in that area. Although his squad is not yet defined: “There are four or five places and we have many doubts“, he admitted.
Will Neymar play in the 2026 World Cup?
If there is one player who fits the above description, it is Neymar. The Brazilian ’10’ has been the subject of much criticism, but none for his quality and talent. Ney is carnival football.
This approach would open the door to a player who has plenty of Jogo Bonito, an experienced player who is a leader in the dressing room and an idol with whom the fans identify. However, the Italian coach has been blunt in this regard; he will only call up players who are in full physical condition, an area in which Neymar has been struggling for years, so the jury is still out.
Ancelotti and the problem of the lack of natural full-backs
Ancelotti has identified a weakness in the defensive flanks. In the absence of specialists, he has opted for alternative solutions. Players such as Eder Militao or Marquinhos could occupy full-back positions, prioritizing team balance over traditional roles: “I have no problem putting a centre-back as a full-back… the important thing is the balance,” he explained.
Key tests before the World Cup
The selection process is not yet closed. Brazil will take advantage of the friendly matches in the United States to define its final list.
- Brazil vs France | March 26
- Brazil vs Croatia | March 31
- Brazil vs Panama | May 31
These matches will be used to evaluate new talent and make final decisions ahead of the tournament.
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