Ancelotti Explains Key Absences From Brazil’s World Cup Qualifying Squad

Carlo Ancelotti has revealed why several big-name players, including Neymar, won’t be available for Brazil’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Brazil‘s head coach Carlo Ancelotti has announced his first squad selection for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers. There were some surprises, with Neymar absent as he continues his recovery from injury. Other key players missing from the squad are Joelinton, Rodrygo, Éderson, and Éder Militão, all sidelined due to various injury concerns. This announcement came just days after Ancelotti concluded his tenure at Real Madrid before taking on the Brazil job.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Ancelotti’s first Brazil squad marks a historic moment as the legendary Italian coach begins his journey with the five-time world champions. Despite the high-profile absences, Brazil’s squad remains formidable with stars like Alisson, Marquinhos, Bruno Guimarães, Casemiro, and Vinícius Júnior all making the cut. The Seleção currently sit fourth in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings with three wins from six matches, trailing leaders Argentina by seven points. These upcoming qualifiers represent crucial fixtures as Brazil aims to build momentum toward the 2026 World Cup.

SQUAD COMPOSITION

The squad includes a mix of experienced players and promising young talents. In goal, Liverpool’s Alisson is joined by Bento from Al-Nassr and Hugo Souza from Corinthians. The defensive line features Paris Saint-Germain duo Marquinhos and Beraldo, alongside several Flamengo players and Al Ahli’s Léo Pereira. In midfield, Premier League representatives Bruno Guimarães, Andreas Pereira, and Casemiro provide experience, while Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior, Barcelona’s Raphinha, and Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli lead the attack. Young sensation Estêvão from Palmeiras also earned a call-up, signaling Ancelotti’s willingness to integrate rising talent.

WHAT NEXT FOR BRAZIL?

Brazil faces Ecuador at home on June 5th before traveling to face Paraguay five days later in crucial World Cup qualifying fixtures. These matches will be Ancelotti’s first true test as Brazil manager after taking over following his successful spell at Real Madrid. The Italian tactician has made it clear that players like Neymar remain in his long-term plans, particularly for the 2026 World Cup. Brazil currently sits six points above seventh-placed Chile in the qualifying table, with the top six nations automatically qualifying for the tournament to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.