Ancelotti Shapes Brazil’s Core XI

As Brazil build towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, Carlo Ancelotti is beginning to leave a discernible imprint on the Seleção. According to Brazilian media assessments, the Italian coach has already identified a core group of players who, on current form and consistency, are close to being “nailed on” for the tournament. The most eye-catching omission from this emerging inner circle is Neymar, whose place remains uncertain as he continues to be assessed following recurring fitness concerns.

Brazil have played eight matches under Ancelotti to date. While the results have been mixed rather than spectacular, the broader direction of travel is becoming clearer. The coach’s priority has been to construct a stable, repeatable starting XI capable of sustaining high-intensity pressing, controlled possession in midfield and rapid transitions in wide areas. The approach reflects Ancelotti’s preference for balance over star power, with recent performances and tactical suitability weighing more heavily than reputation alone. Within the Brazilian camp, there is growing confidence that this pragmatic recalibration could restore Brazil’s status as credible title contenders in 2026.

In goal, Alisson Becker remains the undisputed first choice, valued for his composure under pressure and command of the defensive line. Central defence is anchored by Marquinhos alongside Gabriel, a pairing trusted for its blend of experience, aerial authority and progressive passing. At full-back, Wesley and Douglas Santos are being favoured for their capacity to provide width without compromising defensive structure.

Midfield stability is entrusted to Casemiro’s positional discipline and leadership, complemented by Bruno Guimarães’ tempo-setting and ball progression. This double pivot is designed to shield the defence while enabling swift vertical passes into the attacking third. Further forward, Ancelotti’s preferred attacking unit emphasises pace and interchange: Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo stretch play from wide areas, Raphinha offers direct running and pressing from the flank, while the highly rated teenager Estêvão is being groomed for a more prominent role between the lines.

Although Gabriel Martinelli and Matheus Cunha are not currently viewed as automatic starters, both are expected to play significant roles within a rotation framework, offering tactical variety and impact from the bench. João Pedro is also being considered as a situational option to alter the attacking profile during matches.

Neymar’s situation remains delicately poised. While his pedigree and creativity are undisputed, his recent injury record has prompted the coaching staff to prioritise match fitness and sustained availability. A return to consistent competitive minutes would likely reopen the door to his inclusion, but no guarantees have been offered.

Probable Core XI and Rotation Options

Ancelotti’s likely first-choice shape features Alisson behind a back four of Wesley, Marquinhos, Gabriel and Douglas Santos; Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães forming the midfield platform; and an attacking quartet of Estêvão, Raphinha, Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior. The emphasis on continuity is deliberate, with the coaching staff keen to develop automatisms well in advance of the tournament.

While it is still early in the cycle, Brazil’s evolving core suggests a shift towards cohesion and tactical clarity. Should Neymar regain full fitness and form, he may yet force his way back into the reckoning. Until then, Ancelotti appears content to build a collective capable of challenging for the world title, even without its most famous face.