Renan Lodi, Al-Hilal’s left-back, has been absent from Brazil’s national team since November 2023 and voiced frustration over recent selections under coach Dorival Júnior. In an exclusive interview, the 27-year-old criticized his exclusion, suggested bias against the Saudi league, and expressed hope for a chance under new coach Carlo Ancelotti. Speaking from Serrana, São Paulo, where he’s vacationing before rejoining Al-Hilal for the Club World Cup, Lodi believes his season stats—four goals and nine assists—warrant a spot. The meta description starts here: Renan Lodi criticizes Brazil selection snub, points to Saudi league bias, and trusts Ancelotti for a merit-based chance.
Lodi emphasized his Al-Hilal record, with 51 matches, four goals, and nine assists over two seasons. He also shared his anticipation for Ancelotti’s first squad, announced May 26 for matches against Ecuador and Paraguay.
- Lodi’s season stats: Four goals, nine assists in 51 games.
- Last Brazil appearance: Loss to Colombia, November 16, 2023.
- Current focus: Club World Cup preparation with Al-Hilal.
The player stressed his commitment to his club but commented on teammates like Neymar and the South American World Cup qualifiers.
Stats make his case
Renan Lodi insists his Saudi league numbers should earn him a Brazil recall. With four goals and nine assists in 51 Al-Hilal games, he ranks among the league’s top-performing full-backs. Comparing himself to selected players, he questioned the Brazilian Football Confederation’s (CBF) criteria. “If it’s about stats, they could look at mine. I deserved a chance,” he stated.
Lodi suggested the Saudi league faces prejudice, lacking the prestige of European competitions. Despite this, he remains a key starter for Al-Hilal, showcasing versatility in defense and attack. His performances have drawn attention, yet national team call-ups remain elusive.
⚠️ Fora da lista, Renan Lodi critica convocação da Seleção Brasileira e diz que laterais que foram convocados não têm seus números:
— Planeta do Futebol 🌎 (@futebol_info) June 3, 2025
“Eu pensava que ia ter oportunidade de novo. Não sei se a CBF ou quem faz as convocações tem preconceito com a Liga Saudita, porque na temporada eu… pic.twitter.com/lFT9siIJNP
Neymar’s struggles at Al-Hilal
Having shared the pitch with Neymar at Al-Hilal, Lodi expressed sympathy for the star’s injury setbacks. Neymar suffered a severe knee injury, sidelining him for nearly a year, followed by another issue during recovery. “He was at his peak when the injury hit,” Lodi noted.
Still, Lodi believes Neymar can reclaim his spot in Brazil’s squad. “He’s Neymar—no introduction needed. He’s recovering and will add a lot,” he said. Lodi praised Neymar’s professionalism and their close bond off the field.
- Neymar’s injuries: Knee ligament tear and post-surgery complications.
- Lodi’s connection: Friendship and teamwork at Al-Hilal.
- Outlook: Gradual return to top form expected.
Ancelotti as a fresh start
Carlo Ancelotti’s appointment as Brazil’s coach fuels Lodi’s optimism. Though he never worked under the Italian, Lodi faced him while at Atlético Madrid. He admires Ancelotti’s player-friendly approach. “He’s like a father to the players. He treats everyone equally,” Lodi said.
He pointed to Vinícius Júnior’s transformation under Ancelotti at Real Madrid. “Vini was struggling, but Ancelotti supported him. Now he’s world-class,” Lodi remarked. Confident in Ancelotti’s merit-based selections, Lodi hopes for a national team return.
Gearing up for Club World Cup
Vacationing in Serrana, his hometown, Lodi is recharging before rejoining Al-Hilal for the Club World Cup. His team is in Group H alongside Real Madrid, Salzburg, and Pachuca. The U.S.-based tournament is a major focus for the Saudi club.
Lodi sees Palmeiras as Brazil’s strongest contender in the competition. “Their coach knows the squad inside out, which matters,” he said. While favoring Al-Hilal, he acknowledged Real Madrid and PSG as powerhouses but remains confident in his team’s chances.
Selection criteria under scrutiny
Lodi’s comments spotlight ongoing debates about Brazil’s selection process. He questioned whether call-ups reflect on-field performance. “I’m not sure they pick who deserves it,” he said, emphasizing his Al-Hilal stats.
The Saudi league, despite attracting big names, struggles for recognition compared to European leagues. Lodi argues its competitiveness is undervalued, a discussion likely to persist under Ancelotti’s leadership.
Honoring his roots
Lodi stays connected to his origins. Born in Serrana, he sports a tattoo of the Athletico-PR crest, the club where he rose to prominence. “Athletico was my starting point. I owe them a lot,” he shared.
During his break, Lodi spends time with family and friends, balancing relaxation with anticipation for the season ahead. He follows Brazilian football closely and supports the nation’s clubs in the Club World Cup.
- Lodi’s background: Serrana native, Athletico-PR product.
- Tribute: Tattoo of Athletico’s crest.
- Vacation: Family time before Al-Hilal duties.
Battle for left-back spot
Brazil’s left-back position is highly competitive. Players like Alex Telles, also in Saudi Arabia, and Europe-based Wendell have edged out Lodi under Dorival Júnior. Yet Lodi believes his consistency gives him an edge.
Avoiding direct comparisons, he focuses on his work. “I’m doing my part. If the call comes, I’ll seize it,” he said. Ancelotti’s arrival may shift the dynamic, potentially opening doors for Lodi.
Qualifiers and beyond
The South American World Cup qualifiers remain a challenge for Brazil. Ancelotti’s debut matches against Ecuador and Paraguay signal a new chapter. Lodi follows from afar, still dreaming of a national team comeback.
He praised Ancelotti’s ability to foster team unity. “His group management is key for long tournaments,” Lodi noted, hopeful for Brazil’s future.
News summary
Renan Lodi, Al-Hilal’s left-back, voiced frustration over his absence from Brazil’s national team since November 2023, hinting at bias against the Saudi league. Speaking from Serrana, São Paulo, during vacation, he highlighted his stats—four goals, nine assists in 51 games—and questioned Dorival Júnior’s selections. Lodi pins hopes on Carlo Ancelotti’s merit-driven approach, supports Neymar’s recovery, and backs Palmeiras in the Club World Cup while honoring his Athletico-PR roots.
