Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti left out several big names from his squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers, including Rodrygo Goes, a decision that surprised both the Seleção camp and Real Madrid. True to his straightforward style, the Italian coach explained that he didn’t feel the need to give the forward any prior explanations and added bluntly: “He has my number, he can call me.”

Brazil will face Chile and Bolivia in September, two fixtures where Ancelotti opted to bring in fresh faces since qualification for the World Cup is already secured.

A call-up full of surprises and big omissions

The 23-man list included newcomers such as Kaio Jorge (Cruzeiro), the top scorer of the Brasileirao, as well as the return of Lucas Paquetá (West Ham), who had been left out in recent months due to an ongoing betting investigation.

What stood out the most, however, was the absence of Real Madrid’s Brazilian contingent. Neither Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, nor Éder Militão made the squad. In Vinícius’ case, Ancelotti clarified he was serving a suspension that would rule him out of the first game, making the trip pointless. Neymar, meanwhile, remains sidelined with an injury and under intensive treatment.

“I want to observe players I don’t know well personally. These matches are ideal to give them minutes and see them in action. I know Rodrygo perfectly, I don’t need to evaluate him now,” Ancelotti said in a press conference.

Rodrygo in the spotlight

The Real Madrid forward has become the focal point of debate after Ancelotti’s remarks. The coach made it clear he doesn’t feel obliged to justify the decision and that communication depends on the player himself. “I haven’t spoken to Rodrygo. If he wants explanations, he can call me. He knows how to reach me,” the Italian insisted.

The move has been interpreted as a show of authority, underlining that no one has a guaranteed starting spot and that every player will need to earn their place ahead of the World Cup.

What’s next for the Seleção

Brazil will host Chile on September 4 at the Maracanã and then travel to face Bolivia on September 9 in the 4,100-meter altitude of El Alto. With 25 points in the standings—level with Ecuador and just behind Argentina—the Seleção approaches these matches without pressure, but with the clear objective of shaping the squad for 2026.

With key stars missing and new names stepping up, Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure with Brazil is already showing its hallmark traits: meritocracy, rotation, and a no-nonsense approach—even if that means leaving out players like Rodrygo.