Brazil’s World Cup campaign ended too soon, and Carlo Ancelotti is already looking beyond the wreckage. The Italian coach wants the Seleção to emerge from its last-16 exit with a younger core, while keeping several established leaders at the centre of his plans.
Ancelotti begins Brazil rebuild after World Cup exit
- Brazil were knocked out of the 2026 World Cup in the round of 16, losing 2-1 to Norway on 5 July.
- Ancelotti has set himself the task of identifying “a new generation” as Brazil begin their response to that disappointment.
- The first post-tournament tests come against Australia, with matches scheduled for Friday in Townsville and Tuesday in Brisbane.
- Brazil will then travel to Calcutta to face India on 3 October.
Defender Vitor Reis, 20, and forwards Estevao, 19, and Endrick, 20, are among the young players Ancelotti sees as part of the next cycle.
But the former Real Madrid coach is not planning a clean break from the experienced group. Marquinhos, Bruno Guimaraes, Raphinha and Vinicius Junior remain in his thinking as Brazil attempt to restore momentum.
Raphinha and Vinicius remain central
Ancelotti said he expects both Raphinha and Vinicius to be “fundamental players for the future”, underlining their importance despite the need to refresh the squad.
He also offered clear backing to Estevao, who has found game time difficult to come by at Chelsea. Ancelotti said the teenager would continue to receive international opportunities even if his club situation does not immediately improve.
“Even if he is not playing, I will call him up and give him the chance to develop,” Ancelotti said.
Foreign-player limit welcomed
Ancelotti also approved the decision by Brazilian clubs to reduce the permitted number of foreign players in each squad from nine to five by 2030.
He described the move as “very positive”, arguing that it should open more doors for home-grown prospects.
“It is important to give Brazilian talent its chance, because there is a great deal of it,” he said.
