Carlo Ancelotti Drops Liverpool’s Alisson as Brazil Unveils Youth-Focused Squad for Friendlies

Ancelotti Begins Major Brazil Team Revamp

Carlo Ancelotti has shaken up the Brazil national squad ahead of upcoming friendlies against Australia and India, making bold cuts that include Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson. The Italian coach is prioritizing younger players to build a fresh core for the 2030 World Cup after Brazil’s disappointing exit in the last tournament.

Youth Over Experience

Following Brazil’s unexpected round-of-16 defeat to Norway, Ancelotti promised a rebuild focusing on players who could be key for the 2028 Olympics and beyond. His new squad reflects this vision, leaving out veteran midfielders like Casemiro and Fabinho, while Neymar remains absent due to his recent international retirement.

The omission of Alisson marks a clear shift in goalkeeping choices. Ancelotti explained, “We know Alisson very well. When tournaments like the Copa America come, if he is still the best goalkeeper in Brazil, he will play. Right now, we have to focus on younger talents.”

Veterans Retained to Guide the New Era

Despite the overhaul, some seasoned stars remain to lead the team. Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior and Barcelona’s Raphinha are set to spearhead the attack, joined by Chelsea’s Joao Pedro, who returns after missing the World Cup. Defensive leadership comes from Paris Saint-Germain captain Marquinhos and Arsenal’s new signing Bruno Guimaraes.

"I chose these players to help with this change in direction," Ancelotti said. "They are crucial for the future and will help younger players improve. A player aged 34 or 35 isn’t the future; they are the present. If they are ready for major tournaments, they’ll be included."

New Challenges and Historic Matches Ahead

The revamped Brazil squad will first travel to Australia for two friendlies: facing the Socceroos in Townsville on September 25, then again in Brisbane four days later. After that, the team will make history by playing their first-ever match in India on October 3, a nation with millions of passionate football fans.

Brazil Squad List

• 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, Douglas Luiz, Breno Bidon, Gabriel Bontempo
• Forwards: Endrick, Joao Pedro, Estevao, Pedro, Raphinha, Rayan, Samuel Lino, Vinicius Junior

Upcoming Friendlies

• Date: September 25, 2026
• Opponent: Australia (Socceroos)
• Location: Townsville

• Date: September 29, 2026
• Opponent: Australia
• Location: Brisbane

• Date: October 3, 2026
• Opponent: India (historic first match)
• Location: Kolkata