Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti announced his squad on Thursday for the national team's friendlies against Japan and Singapore in November, once again leaning heavily toward youth as the five-time world champions continue rebuilding following a disappointing World Cup. Brazil will play Japan in Singapore on Nov. 14 and face the hosts three days later. Overall, the squad includes nine players of Olympic age and 15 under 23, signaling an aggressive push toward generational renewal.
"During this period leading up to 2027, we must carry out this work to find a clear direction," Ancelotti told reporters. "I believe that by the first friendly matches of 2028, as the [World Cup] qualifiers begin and preparations for the Copa América get underway, we'll have a more established team."
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker is among the veterans from the World Cup round-of-16 exit who were again left out. "We don't need to test Alisson," the former Real Madrid coach said. "We know him very well. He is the best goalkeeper. When the Copa América begins, he will be called up, and it's the same for the others. Right now, it's time to observe, refresh the squad, and help young players reach their full potential."
Chelsea attacker Estêvão has retained his place in the squad, despite the 19-year-old starting just two games for Chelsea so far this season under new coach Xabi Alonso. "We hope he can show all the quality he has," Ancelotti added. "As long as we believe he could be useful to the national team, we will follow his progress, allowing him the opportunity to develop at a natural pace, as it's appropriate for a 19-year-old."
To accommodate domestic clubs in tight championship races, the coaching staff bypassed players from teams directly contending for domestic titles, leaving major clubs such as Palmeiras, Flamengo, and Atlético Mineiro unrepresented.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing