Carlo Ancelotti believes that Brazil’s upcoming friendlies during this international break should signify the start of a “new generation,” especially after their disappointing performance in the recent World Cup.
Brazil faced an early exit in the last 16 at this summer’s World Cup against Norway, marking their earliest departure from FIFA’s premier tournament since 1990.
In response, Ancelotti has made significant changes to the 26-man squad for matches against Australia (twice) and India, leaving out notable players like Casemiro and Fabinho.
Only a handful of players—Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos, Bruno Guimaraes, Danilo Santos, Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Endrick, and Rayan—remain from Brazil’s World Cup roster.
Ancelotti’s squad includes players eligible for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, as he aims to build a foundation for the 2030 World Cup.
The Brazil coach anticipates a tough challenge in the friendlies against Australia and hopes this will be the dawn of a new era for the Selecao.
“It’s hard to label it a friendly. For Brazil, these are never just exhibition matches,” Ancelotti remarked. “These games are crucial.”
“As a new season begins, our objective is to identify and cultivate new talent for the World Cup and the Copa America, and we start that tomorrow.”
“I understand soccer isn’t the leading sport in Australia, but they performed admirably at the World Cup, and Tony [Popovic, Australia’s coach] has done an excellent job.”
“He has organized a strong, defensive team with an impressive counter-attack. They had a remarkable win against Turkiye but lost on penalties to Egypt.”
“In modern football, no game is easy. Preparation is key; we must respect our opponents and give our best.”
First full-team practice in Brisbane.
Intense training, preparations underway, and the Brazilian fans are already making their presence known!
FRIDAY IS BRAZIL DAY!
Australia vs. Brazil
7 am (Brasilia time)
Queensland Country Bank Stadium
TV Globo, SporTV, and GeTV… pic.twitter.com/FRcPA7MjdT— brasil (@CBF_Futebol) September 23, 2026
Australia enters this match after reaching the knockout stages of the World Cup for the third time in its history, having lost to Egypt on penalties in the round of 32.
Tony Popovic is gearing up his squad for the Asian Cup next January, at which point his contract will come to an end.
This will be Ancelotti’s first match managing in Australia, and he’s eager to reconnect with Popovic, who he considers a friend off the field.
“We are close friends,” Ancelotti said regarding Popovic. “We sometimes find time to discuss football.”
“We spent time together in Milan and in Brisbane. It’s always a pleasure to converse with him about the game. He’s doing a fantastic job here.”
“A passionate manager, and I wish him nothing but success. His team demonstrated strong quality during the World Cup, showing great cohesion.”
“We’ve received a wonderful welcome, not just from the Brazilian community but from everyone.”
“The Brazilian national team is held in high regard worldwide. Since it’s my first trip to Australia, I’m trying to make the most of this beautiful country.”
Fan Take: This news is vital for soccer enthusiasts as it indicates Brazil’s commitment to rejuvenating their team after a setback in the World Cup. The emergence of fresh talent could dramatically reshape Brazil’s future prospects in international competitions, reinvigorating fans’ hopes and excitement for the game.
Source: www.soccernews.com
