Carlo Ancelotti Begins Brazil Tenure by Dropping Neymar and Recalling Casemiro for World Cup Qualifiers Squad

Carlo Ancelotti has announced his first Brazil squad since taking over as head coach, and it’s already making headlines. Neymar, the Seleção’s all-time top scorer, has been left out, while experienced midfielder Casemiro, Tottenham’s Richarlison, and Antony of Real Betis have been recalled.

Brazil is gearing up for two vital 2026 World Cup qualifiers—against Ecuador on June 5 and Paraguay on June 10—and Ancelotti’s bold selection decisions underline a clear focus on fitness and form over reputation.

Neymar’s Absence: A Surprising Yet Calculated Call

Despite returning to action with Santos following a lengthy recovery from a torn ACL and meniscus suffered last October, Neymar finds himself excluded from the national roster. The 32-year-old has played in his club’s last two matches, but Ancelotti is prioritizing physical readiness.

“I tried to select players who are in good shape,” Ancelotti said on Monday. “Neymar had an injury recently. Everyone knows that Neymar is a very important player, he always has been and always will be.” The decision marks the first major statement of Ancelotti’s reign, signalling that past glories won’t outweigh current condition.

Rodrygo Also Left Out: A Clear Message from the New Boss

Alongside Neymar, Real Madrid star Rodrygo is another high-profile omission. The 23-year-old has endured a grueling season in Spain and is still finding his rhythm. Ancelotti, who coached Rodrygo at Madrid, has chosen not to risk players lacking peak match sharpness.

By sidelining two of Brazil’s most recognizable attacking names, the Italian tactician has opened the door for others to step up—players with freshness, form, and availability on their side.

Casemiro’s Leadership Returns to the Fold

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro makes his return after a nine-month absence from international duty. With 75 Brazil caps and a wealth of experience, his inclusion adds much-needed leadership and resilience in midfield.”In my opinion, he is a great player. I was lucky to be with him, I think the national team needs this type of player who has charisma, personality, talent,” Ancelotti said. “In modern soccer, you have to add attitude, commitment, sacrifice, and Casemiro has that.”

Casemiro’s presence is likely to bring balance to a midfield that has sometimes lacked grit and organization during Brazil’s turbulent qualifying campaign.

Richarlison and Antony Handed Fresh Opportunities

Tottenham’s Richarlison and Real Betis loanee Antony are also back in the mix after being sidelined since October 2023. Both attackers are in better condition and have the chance to revitalize Brazil’s frontline in Neymar’s absence.

Antony, in particular, will be competing with Barcelona’s Raphinha and Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior for a starting berth. His form at Betis has impressed Ancelotti, and he now has the opportunity to prove his worth on the international stage.

Vinícius Júnior Under the Spotlight

Despite his glittering form at club level—runner-up in the latest Ballon d’Or and a pivotal figure in Madrid’s European success—Vinícius Júnior has struggled to replicate his club performances for Brazil, netting just six times in 39 caps.

“It’s hard to say, because Vini hasn’t shown his best side yet,” said Ancelotti. “If that hasn’t happened, it will, because he’s an extraordinary player, hard-working and a fighter.”

“The truth is that Brazilian players are very fond of their national team, and this may affect their natural thinking, in the sense that sometimes they feel a lot of pressure to perform well. This may prevent them from performing well. I am totally convinced that Vini will show his true colors with his national team.” With Neymar out, the onus may now fall on Vinícius to take up the creative mantle.

Brazil’s Qualification Woes Add Urgency

The five-time world champions currently sit fourth in the CONMEBOL standings and have lost five of their 14 matches. Qualification is far from guaranteed, and Ancelotti’s selections suggest a no-nonsense approach to rectifying Brazil’s inconsistent performances.

With critical points on the line, every decision has been made with pragmatism. Form, fitness, and function have trumped fanfare.

Brazil Full Squad

Goalkeepers:
Alisson (Liverpool), Bento (Al Nassr), Hugo Souza (Corinthians)

Defenders:
Alexsandro (Flamengo), Alexsandro Ribeiro (Lille), Beraldo (PSG), Carlos Augusto (Inter Milan), Danilo (Flamengo), Léo Ortiz (Flamengo), Marquinhos (PSG), Vanderson (Monaco), Wesley (Flamengo)

Midfielders:
Andreas Pereira (Fulham), Andrey Santos (Strasbourg), Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Éderson (Atalanta), Gerson (Flamengo)

Forwards:
Antony (Betis), Estêvão (Palmeiras), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Matheus Cunha (Wolves), Raphinha (Barcelona), Richarlison (Tottenham), Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)

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