Carlo Ancelotti officially began his historic tenure as Brazil’s head coach with a series of bold decisions, including leaving out injured superstar Neymar and promising to unlock the full potential of forward Vinícius Júnior. The Italian tactician addressed the media in Rio de Janeiro on Monday, unveiling his first squad ahead of Brazil’s World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay.

The 65-year-old Ancelotti becomes the first foreigner in a century to coach the five-time World Cup winners on a full-time basis. His contract runs through the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Among his most notable moves was omitting Neymar, who recently returned to Santos after recovering from a muscular injury. “Unfortunately, we have a lot of players who suffered injuries and cannot be in the national team, like Neymar,” Ancelotti explained. “Brazil has many talented players, and in Neymar’s specific case, we are counting on him. He came back to Brazil to play and prepare for the World Cup. I spoke to him this morning to explain that to him, and he is totally in agreement.”

The new coach also made headlines by recalling veteran midfielder Casemiro, who captained Brazil at the 2022 World Cup but had been absent from the squad for nearly a year and a half. “The national team needs these players, who have charisma, personality, talent,” Ancelotti said. “In modern soccer, you have to also have posture, compromise, sacrifice. And Casemiro does have that, as many of those in the squad do. That is key to prepare for the World Cup.”

Another major focus was Vinícius Júnior, who has faced criticism for underperforming in the Brazil jersey despite his electric form at Real Madrid. Ancelotti, who coached the winger at Madrid, expressed full confidence. “I am totally convinced that Vinicius will show his best version in the national team,” he said, joking, “Like Madrid. Not the one of this year, the one of last year.”

Reflecting on his illustrious club career, which includes five Champions League titles and domestic titles across Europe, Ancelotti remained humble. “After 40 years I still don’t know what makes teams win. I know I want players in a comfortable position on the pitch,” he said.

With charm and confidence, Ancelotti acknowledged the high expectations placed upon him. “Brazilian society wants me to deliver a first World Cup title after 24 years, I know. What a tall order.”

Squad:

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

Defenders: Alex Sandro, Danilo, Leo Ortiz, Wesley (all Flamengo), Alexsandro (Lille), Lucas Beraldo (Paris Saint-Germain), Carlos Augusto (Inter Milan), Vanderson (Monaco)

Midfielders: Andreas Pereira (Fulham), Andrey Santos (Strasbourg), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Ederson (Atalanta), (Gerson)

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