Lucas Paquetá is confirmed by Ancelotti for the 2026 World Cup

Midfielder Lucas Paquetá secured his place in the Seleção Brasileira for the Copa of the 2026 Mundo, according to the official announcement from the Carlo Ancelotti coach. The news, released this Monday, May 18, 2026, confirms the athlete as an integral part of the group of 26 players who will seek a sixth world championship. Expectations surrounding the final roster were high, and Paquetá’s presence reflects his consistency and performance in recent years, making him a fundamental pillar for the team’s strategy.

The player’s inclusion in the final list underlines the coaching staff’s confidence in his talent and tactical adaptability. Ancelotti publicly highlighted Paquetá’s importance to the team’s dynamics, mentioning his ability to play in different roles in midfield. The call-up crowns a career marked by ascension and overcoming, from his first steps at Flamengo to his consolidation in European football, solidifying his position as one of the most versatile midfielders on the international scene.

Trajetória ascendant: from Flamengo to European football

Lucas Paquetá began his football journey in the youth teams of Flamengo, where he quickly stood out for his ball control and vision of the game. Sua made his debut in the professional team in 2016, but it was in 2018 that he established himself as one of the main names of the red and black team, being a key player in the campaign of Campeonato Brasileiro and Copa of Brasil. The overwhelming performance on the Brasil caught the attention of European giants, opening the doors for their first international experience.

In January 2019, Paquetá transferred to Milan from Itália, a significant step in his career. The period at the Italian club was one of adaptation, with ups and downs, demanding resilience from the young athlete. Embora showed flashes of its potential, regularity came with the move to Olympique Lyonnais, in França, in September 2020. No Lyon, Paquetá rediscovered their best football, becoming the team’s main articulator and one of the highlights of Campeonato Francês. Sua performance at Ligue 1 put him back on the big league radar.

The most prominent phase in European clubs occurred at West Ham United, from Inglaterra, where he moved in August 2022. At the London club, Paquetá adapted perfectly to the intense pace of Premier League, combining his refined technique with the combativeness required in English football. Ele was one of the protagonists in winning UEFA’s Liga Conferência in 2023, a historic title for West Ham and proof of their decision-making capacity at crucial moments. Experience in different leagues and playing styles has shaped him into a complete and versatile athlete.

Habilidades and statistics that led to his selection

The call-up of Lucas Paquetá to Copa from Mundo of 2026 is no surprise to those who follow his evolution. Sua tactical intelligence allows him to move between the positions of midfielder, second midfielder and even a winger on the side of the field. Possui a rare combination of creativity in passing, short and effective dribbling, and a remarkable ability to finish from medium distance. Além In addition, his defensive work, with disarms and recovery, is an attribute valued by the coaching staff.

His career numbers, although variable between clubs and leagues, demonstrate a constant impact. Ele is often among his teams’ assist leaders, as well as contributing important goals in decisive moments. His precision in passing in the attacking field and his ability to break down opposing lines with dribbling are characteristics that set him apart. Sua’s ability to perform under pressure, whether creating plays or containing, makes him a reliable player for big challenges.

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• Improved game play Visão for decisive passes
• Drible short and objective in small spaces
• Capacidade finishing from outside the area
• Versatilidade to play in multiple midfield positions
• Contribuição defensive with tackles and interceptions
• Resiliência and physical strength for modern football

Current Momento and expectations in the cup

Aos 28 years old, Lucas Paquetá reaches Copa from Mundo of 2026 at his physical and technical peak. Sua’s most recent season was marked by consistent performances in West Ham, where he continued to be a key player, leading the team in high-pressure moments. Essa’s maturity in the game and the experience accumulated in high-level leagues position him as one of the technical leaders of the Brazilian squad, prepared to take on responsibilities on football’s biggest stage.

Paquetá’s role in Carlo Ancelotti’s strategy for Seleção Brasileira seems well defined. Ele is seen as a vital link between defense and attack, capable of starting the construction of plays, but also of reaching the opponent’s area to finish. Sua presence offers Ancelotti tactical flexibility, allowing variations in game plan depending on the opponent. The athlete’s versatility allows the team to maintain quality and control of the midfield, even in the face of eventual changes.

Expectations surrounding his participation in Copa are high, both on the part of the coaching staff and the fans. Paquetá has the chance to consolidate its name in the history of Brazilian football, contributing to the quest for the coveted world title. Sua energy, technique and experience will be crucial for selection in such a demanding tournament, where every detail can define the fate of the teams. Ele represents the new generation of Brazilian talent, combining art and efficiency on the pitch.

Curiosidades and life off the field

Lucas Tolentino Coelho from Lima, better known as Lucas Paquetá, adopted the nickname in reference to Ilha from Paquetá, in Rio from Janeiro, where he grew up and took his first steps in football. Sua’s story is marked by a strong family bond, being the youngest in a family that has always supported him on his journey. His passion for football is accompanied by his charisma and joy, often expressed in goal celebrations with dances that have become his trademark.

Fora from the fields, Paquetá maintains a reserved life, but demonstrates a deep connection to his roots and his family. He is married to Maria Eduarda Fournier and is the father of two children, who frequently appear on his social media, demonstrating a more personal and affectionate side of the player. Ele is known for his dedication to training and his discipline, factors that contributed to his rise on the world football stage.

The player is also recognized for his faith and for expressing gratitude in his achievements. Sua’s resilience in times of difficulty, such as adapting to European football, is a testament to his mental strength. Lucas Paquetá’s vibrant personality, combined with his undeniable technical quality, makes him one of the most loved and admired athletes both in Brasil and in the clubs where he played, promising to shine even more in the next Copa of Mundo.