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Carlo Ancelotti Names Inaugural Brazil Squad, Excluding Neymar

Granted total autonomy by new CBF president Samir Xaud, he targets a turnaround in Brazil’s World Cup qualifying.

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Soccer Football - Brazil unveils new coach Carlo Ancelotti - Grand Hyatt, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - May 26, 2025 New Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti during the press conference REUTERS/Ricardo Moraes
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Overview

  • Ancelotti officially assumed the Brazil job with a contract through the 2026 World Cup, becoming the first non-Brazilian full-time coach in over six decades under CBF boss Samir Xaud’s stewardship.
  • He unveiled a 25-man roster for June qualifiers against Ecuador (June 5) and Paraguay (June 10), leaving injured stars Neymar and Rodrygo out while recalling veterans Casemiro and Richarlison.
  • The squad blends youth and experience with the inclusion of emerging talents such as Andrey Santos and 18-year-old winger Estêvão to inject freshness into the lineup.
  • Ancelotti publicly backed underperforming key players, expressing confidence that Vinícius Júnior will rediscover his best form for the national side.
  • Brazil sits fourth in the CONMEBOL qualifying table and must secure positive results in its next two matches to bolster its push for a World Cup berth.