Italy's Carlo Ancelotti took charge of Brazil's national football team in May 2025, becoming their first foreign coach at a World Cup and leading the team at the 2026 tournament in the United States [1, 2, 3, 4]. Brazil, aiming for a sixth World Cup title, last won in 2002, marking a 24-year wait comparable to the gap between their 1970 and 1994 victories [1, 3, 4].

Brazil finished fifth in their 10-team South American qualifying group, 10 points behind first-place Argentina, a less-than-ideal position heading into the tournament [1, 3, 4]. The 66-year-old Ancelotti’s squad for the World Cup includes 26 players with an average age near 29, including 10 in their thirties. Eight starters from Brazil's 2022 World Cup team remain, providing some continuity [1, 3, 4].

Injuries have affected several key players, with center-back Eder Militao and forwards Rodrygo and Estevao sidelined, leaving gaps in the squad [1, 5, 4, 6]. Chelsea’s Joao Pedro was omitted. One of the most notable decisions has been the recall of 34-year-old Neymar, who has struggled with injuries and limited appearances for Brazil since a severe knee injury in 2023 [5, 6]. Neymar suffered a grade-two calf injury before the World Cup that may keep him out for two to three weeks, but Ancelotti expressed optimism that Neymar could be fit for Brazil's opening match on June 13 [5, 6].

Despite these challenges, Brazil’s attack features strong depth with players such as Vinicius Jr, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha, and youngster Endrick showing promise [5, 6]. Ancelotti has emphasized a high-pressing and relentless running style. “My side must press high and run relentlessly,” he said earlier this year [5, 6].

Off the pitch, Ancelotti has been learning Portuguese intensively, taking four lessons a week, to better communicate with players and staff. Roberto Piantino, one of his language coaches, remarked, “I was surprised by his commitment... That showed me how serious he really was about learning” [2]. Former Brazil international Walter Casagrande added that Brazil needed “a manager bigger than the players,” praising Ancelotti’s leadership [2].

Brazil warmed up for the tournament with a convincing 6-2 friendly win over Panama at the end of May, showcasing their offensive potential [2]. At the World Cup, Brazil is set to open Group C against Morocco in New Jersey on June 13, followed by matches against Haiti and Scotland [5, 6].