Carlo Ancelotti, making his first squad announcement as Brazil's coach, has delivered a surprising 26-man roster for next month's World Cup qualifiers. The former Real Madrid coach has notably excluded Brazilian star Neymar, Real Madrid's Rodrygo, Weverton, Lucas Paqueta, Guilherme Arana, Gabriel Magalhães, and Murillo from his selection.
Ancelotti unveiled his squad on Monday, May 26. Beyond Neymar's omission, one of the most talked-about inclusions in his first team is the return of 33-year-old midfielder Casemiro after nearly a year's absence.
Significant Changes from Previous Squad
Ancelotti has made numerous changes from the last squad that played against Argentina. Veteran goalkeeper Alisson, who returned to Liverpool after a head injury sustained in the match against Colombia, is back in the fold. He is joined by Hugo Souza, Andreas Pereira, PSG defender Beraldo (who received a call-up before the Argentina match), and Alexsandro Ribeiro and Carlos Augusto, who are rewarded for their strong club performances. Gabriel Martinelli, Matheus Cunha, and Richarlison also make their return.
Ancelotti's Pride and Future Goals
Ancelotti was officially introduced as Brazil's coach in Rio de Janeiro before the squad announcement, where he expressed his pride. "I am proud to be in charge of the best team in the world," he stated. "I have a big job ahead of me, and I hope Brazil will be champions again."
Upcoming World Cup Qualifiers
Brazil is set to play two World Cup qualifying matches next month: against Ecuador on June 5 and Paraguay on June 10. With 21 points from 14 matches, Brazil currently sits in fourth place. The top six teams will automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup, while the seventh-placed team will have an opportunity to qualify through an inter-confederation playoff.
Brazil Squad
Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Bento (Al Nassr), Hugo Souza (Corinthians)
Defenders: Alex Sandro (Flamengo), Danilo (Flamengo), Leo Ortiz (Flamengo), Wesley (Flamengo), Beraldo (PSG), Marquinhos (PSG), Alexsandro (Lille), Carlos Augusto (Inter Milan), Vanderson (Monaco)
Midfielders: Andreas Pereira (Fulham), Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle), Andrey Santos (Strasbourg), Casemiro (Manchester United), Ederson (Atalanta), Gerson (Flamengo)
Forwards: Estevão (Palmeiras), Antony (Real Betis), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Matheus Cunha (Wolves), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid), Raphinha (Barcelona), Richarlison (Tottenham)
