Ancelotti Names Newlook Brazil Squad for Friendlies

Carlo Ancelotti has announced a significantly reshaped 26-player Brazil squad for upcoming international friendlies, signaling a new era for the national team following their disappointing round of 16 exit from the 2026 World Cup. The squad, set to face Australia on September 25 and 29, and India on October 3, features a strong emphasis on youth and includes several new call-ups as Ancelotti begins preparations for the 2030 World Cup cycle. Several established stars have been omitted from the selection. Neymar, who announced his international retirement after the World Cup, is absent, as are midfielders Casemiro and Fabinho. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker also did not make the squad, with three new goalkeepers - Hugo Souza, Pedro Morisco, and Otavio - being brought in. Ancelotti stated that while older players might still have a future if they are prepared for important competitions, the current focus is on integrating younger talent. "The World Cup was a disappointment for us and for me personally," Ancelotti said. "We weren't able to play the way we expected. Being eliminated by Norway was a huge letdown.