Carlo Ancelotti Overhauls Brazil Squad, Drops Liverpool’s Alisson Ahead of 2030 World Cup

Ancelotti Initiates Major Brazil Squad Refresh

Carlo Ancelotti has started a sweeping rebuild of the Brazil national team after a disappointing World Cup run. The Italian coach has dropped key veterans, including Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, aiming to prioritize younger talent as Brazil looks ahead to the 2030 World Cup.

Youth Takes Priority Over Experience

In preparation for upcoming friendlies against Australia and India, Ancelotti unveiled a youthful lineup. Notable omissions include veteran midfielders Casemiro and Fabinho, while Neymar remains absent following his international retirement. This squad focuses on players likely to compete in the 2028 Olympic Games, establishing a foundation for future success.

Reflecting on World Cup Disappointment

"The World Cup was a disappointment for us and for me personally," Ancelotti told ESPN. "The pain of the defeat lingers much longer. Now, however, we are motivated by the fact that we have time to prepare for a new cycle and get ready for the upcoming competitions."

He explained his decision to exclude seasoned goalkeeper Alisson, saying, "We know Alisson very well, and when competitions like the Copa America come, if he remains the best goalkeeper in Brazil, Alisson will play. Right now, however, we have to prioritise the younger ones."

Experienced Players Retained to Guide the Next Generation

Despite trimming older players, Ancelotti kept some experienced stars to help mentor the youth. Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior and Barcelona’s Raphinha lead the attack alongside Chelsea’s Joao Pedro, returning after missing the World Cup. Defenders Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain captain) and Arsenal’s Bruno Guimaraes also remain integral.

"I chose these players to help with this change in direction," Ancelotti said. "They are crucial for the future and will help the younger players improve. One thing is certain: a player who is 34 or 35 years old isn’t the future; they are the present. If a player of that age is ready to play in a major tournament, they will be in the national squad."

Historic Friendlies Mark New Era

The refreshed Brazil squad will first face Australia twice in Townsville on September 25 and Brisbane four days later. Then, the team will make history with their first-ever match in India on October 3, playing in Kolkata before a huge fanbase.

Brazil Squad for Upcoming Friendlies

• Goalkeepers: Hugo Souza, Pedro Morisco, Otavio
• Defenders: Arthur Dias, Wesley, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Douglas Santos, Jair, Matheuzinho, Maurio Junior, Vitor Reis
• Midfielders: Bruno Guimaraes, Andrey Santos, Danilo Santos, Dougals Luiz, Breno Bidon, Gabriel Bontempo
• Forwards: Endrick, Joao Pedro, Estevao, Pedro, Raphinha, Rayan, Samuel Lino, Vinicius Junior

Friendlies Schedule

• Date: September 25, 2026
• Opponent: Australia
• Location: Townsville
• Kickoff: 12:00