The day dawned with anticipation in Rio de Janeiro. Carlo Ancelotti, the new head coach of the Brazilian national team, arrived in the city on Sunday night, bringing the promise of a new era for the five-time world champions. The Italian’s arrival, marked by tight security and a flight tracked by thousands of fans, signals the start of an ambitious CBF project. Today, at 3:00 PM, at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Barra da Tijuca, he announced his first list of 23 players called up for the World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay.
Ancelotti’s appointment, one of the most successful coaches in history, reflects the CBF’s ambition to restore Brazil’s global dominance. The presentation event, which also unveiled the squad, drew over 200 journalists from eight countries.
The Italian coach, who left Real Madrid after a trophy-laden tenure, now faces the challenge of leading a team currently fourth in the qualifiers with 21 points. His first matches, on June 5 and 10, will be crucial for securing a spot in the World Cup.
Discreet Arrival
Ancelotti landed at Galeão Airport at 8:50 PM on Sunday via a private flight from Madrid. The CBF meticulously planned the operation, with the coach exiting through the VIP lounge to avoid the main terminal. Only one fan awaited at the airport, but dozens gathered at the hotel in Barra da Tijuca. Accompanied by his family and agent Diego Fernandes, Ancelotti did not speak to the press but waved to fans, sparking excitement.
The choice of the Grand Hyatt as the venue for the announcement underscores the grandeur the CBF envisions for the event. The hotel, where Ancelotti is staying in a 120 m² sea-view suite, was prepared to host international media and football authorities. Enhanced security, including an armored van and 24-hour escort, highlights the coach’s importance to the project.
Meticulous Preparation for the Squad
The squad selection process began weeks earlier in Madrid, with meetings involving Ancelotti, Rodrigo Caetano, and Juan. A confidential 50-player preliminary list was sent to FIFA, a decision by Ancelotti to avoid speculation. Unlike previous call-ups, such as Dorival Júnior’s in March, the CBF opted not to disclose preliminary names, focusing on the surprise of the official announcement.
Among the likely players, names leaked to the press reflect Ancelotti’s vision of balancing established stars with rising talents, many playing in Europe. The inclusion of Brazilian league players like Pedro and Oscar signals the coach’s attention to the domestic championship.
Selection Criteria Included:
- Recent Performance: Players in top form at their clubs, like Richarlison at Tottenham, were prioritized.
- Tactical Versatility: Ancelotti sought players adaptable to various formations.
- Previous Collaboration: Some, like Casemiro, worked with him at Real Madrid.
- Physical Condition: Injuries, such as Neymar’s, were carefully assessed.
Carlo Ancelotti’s First Call-Up
The names are being announced now:
Goalkeepers
- Alisson
- Bento
- Hugo Souza
Defenders
- Alex Sandro
- Alexsandro
- Lucas Beraldo
- Carlos Augusto
- Danilo
- Léo Ortiz
- Marquinhos
- Vanderson
- Wesley
Midfielders
- Andreas Pereira
- Andrey Santos
- Bruno Guimarães
- Casemiro
- Ederson
- Gerson
Forwards
- Antony
- Estevão
- Gabriel Martinelli
- Matheus Cunha
- Raphinha
- Richarlison
- Vinicius Júnior
Tactical Challenges Ahead
Ancelotti takes over at a critical moment in the qualifiers. With 21 points, Brazil trails Argentina (31 points), Ecuador, and Uruguay (23 points each). The matches against Ecuador on June 5 at the Monumental Stadium in Guayaquil and Paraguay on June 10 at the Neo Química Arena are pivotal. Victories in both could secure early qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Known for tactical flexibility, Ancelotti is expected to adapt his philosophy to the squad’s strengths. At Real Madrid, he alternated between 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1, emphasizing defensive solidity and quick transitions. For Brazil, a pragmatic approach is anticipated, leveraging the speed of forwards like Richarlison and the creativity of midfielders like Oscar.
Training will begin on June 2 at Corinthians’ training center in São Paulo. The short preparation period requires Ancelotti to prioritize team integration, especially with less experienced players.
Warm Welcome in Rio
Ancelotti’s arrival at the hotel in Barra da Tijuca was met with enthusiastic support. Fans, many wearing Brazil jerseys, greeted him with banners and chants. The newly elected CBF president, Samir Xaud, was present to welcome him, emphasizing the moment’s significance. Xaud’s election, held the same day, marks a new chapter for the CBF, which seeks stability after years of turmoil.
Ancelotti, who speaks basic Portuguese, surprised fans by greeting them briefly, generating buzz on social media. His presence in Brazil also drew international attention, with broadcasters from Spain and Italy covering the event.
International Expertise
Ancelotti brings an unrivaled resume to Brazil. With five Champions League titles and stints at clubs like Milan, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich, he is the most successful coach in the competition’s history. His experience with Brazilian players like Kaká, Ronaldo, and Vinicius Jr. was a key factor in his hiring.
The preliminary list reflects this familiarity. Players like Casemiro, who thrived under him at Real Madrid, and Neymar, with whom Ancelotti spoke by phone, are seen as project pillars. The inclusion of less obvious names, like Igor Paixão from Feyenoord, shows his attention to players in less prominent leagues.
European Clubs Represented in the Preliminary List:
- Premier League: Tottenham, Manchester United, Bournemouth, Brighton
- Ligue 1: Lille, Monaco, Strasbourg
- Serie A: Fiorentina
- Eredivisie: Feyenoord
Logistics and Planning
The CBF meticulously planned Ancelotti’s debut. After the call-up, he will remain in Rio until Tuesday, visiting the CBF headquarters. The following week, he will travel to São Paulo to lead training at Corinthians’ facility, chosen for its world-class infrastructure.
The logistics for the matches are set. The game against Ecuador at 8:00 PM on June 5 requires adaptation to Guayaquil’s intense heat. The Paraguay match at 9:45 PM on June 10 will benefit from over 40,000 fans at the Neo Química Arena.
Surprise Names
While stars like Neymar and Casemiro are expected, some preliminary list players stand out. Igor Paixão, with 18 goals and 14 assists at Feyenoord last season, is a rising star in the Dutch league. His call-up would recognize Brazilian talent in alternative markets.
Alexsandro, a Lille defender, is another surprise. A Flamengo youth product, he has over 100 appearances for the French club, suggesting Ancelotti’s willingness to bet on consistent but lesser-known defenders.
Young talents like Andrey Santos, a 21-year-old midfielder impressing at Strasbourg, complement the midfield alongside Casemiro.
Flamengo’s Dominance
Flamengo leads the preliminary list with six players: Danilo, Alex Sandro, Léo Ortiz, Wesley, Gerson, and Pedro. Their presence reflects the club’s strength as Brazilian league leaders. Ancelotti, who followed the Brasileirão remotely, values their consistency in a demanding competition.
Pedro, in particular, returns after a 2024 injury. The Flamengo striker, the club’s top scorer, is an alternative to Evanílson and João Pedro. Gerson is expected to play as a versatile midfielder, contributing in both attack and defense.
Neymar’s Spotlight
Neymar’s potential call-up is a highlight. Recovered from a muscular injury at Santos, he has played recent matches and is ready to return. Ancelotti, who spoke with him, sees Neymar as a technical and emotional leader.
With 79 goals in 128 matches, Neymar is Brazil’s all-time top scorer. His return requires caution, given his adaptation to Brazilian football after years in Europe. Fans hope he can reclaim his world-class form.
Tight Schedule
Ancelotti’s calendar is intense. With less than two weeks to prepare, training at Corinthians’ facility will focus on tactical adjustments. He plans at least two internal friendlies to test formations.
The team travels to Guayaquil on June 3, arriving the next day. The CBF secured a high-standard hotel for player recovery. The return to Brazil follows the Ecuador match, with focus on the Paraguay game.
Key Schedule Dates:
- June 2: Training begins at Corinthians’ facility.
- June 3: Travel to Guayaquil.
- June 5: Ecuador match at 8:00 PM.
- June 10: Paraguay match at 9:45 PM.
Event Venue
The Grand Hyatt, chosen for the call-up, symbolizes sophistication in Barra da Tijuca. The main hall, adapted for the press, will broadcast the event live on CBF TV and channels like SporTV. The venue reflects the CBF’s aim for a modern, professional image.
Ancelotti, staying at the hotel until week’s end, met with his staff, including son Davide Ancelotti and Paul Clement, to finalize the list. Integration between his team and CBF staff is key to the project’s success.
International Repercussion
Ancelotti’s arrival in Brazil drew global attention. Spanish newspaper Marca highlighted his emotional farewell at Real Madrid, where players and fans honored him. Italy’s Gazzetta dello Sport covered “Carletto’s” first national team venture.
The call-up sparked debates in European sports shows, particularly over the absence of players like Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo, likely rested due to physical issues. The international press sees Ancelotti’s list as a glimpse into his 2026 World Cup strategy, to be held in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Focus on Brazilian Clubs
Besides Flamengo, other Brazilian clubs feature in the preliminary list. Santos (Neymar) and São Paulo (Oscar) highlight the domestic league’s relevance. Cruzeiro (Fabrício Bruno) and Corinthians (Hugo Souza) also contribute. Ancelotti’s selection of Brasileirão players suggests he will closely monitor the league, despite being based in Brazil only during call-ups.
Oscar, back at São Paulo after years in China, is a standout. His international experience and playmaking ability position him as a midfield orchestrator. Fabrício Bruno, called up in 2024, could pair with Léo Ortiz in defense.
Future Vision
Ancelotti plans to live in Rio during his tenure, preferring an apartment in Barra da Tijuca over a house. The CBF is arranging options to meet his request, ensuring proximity to headquarters. He also plans regular Europe trips to scout players.
Today’s call-up is the first step toward the 2026 World Cup. The CBF trusts Ancelotti’s experience to lead a talented generation under pressure for results after years without a World Cup title. Fans hope he brings the same magic that defined his European club success.
