The Brazilian national team has announced several updates to Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the October friendlies against South Korea and Japan, as preparations for the 2026 World Cup continue. The Italian coach has recalled two of his former Real Madrid players, Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo, who return after absences due to suspension and fitness issues, respectively.

The return of Madrid’s stars

Vinícius missed the last South American qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia while serving a one-match ban. Meanwhile, Rodrygo was left out of previous call-ups due to physical problems, although Ancelotti emphasized that whenever he has played for Madrid, he has performed at a high level: “He’s very motivated and an important player for the national team. He can play in every attacking position,” the coach noted.

Both forwards will be key figures in the Seleção’s Asian tour, which begins on October 10 against South Korea in Seoul and continues on the 14th against Japan in Tokyo. These will be the first matches specifically geared toward preparation for the 2026 World Cup.

A squad marked by absences

The 26-man list also reflects the difficulties facing the coach. Ancelotti explained that his choices were limited by numerous injuries. Raphinha, Marquinhos, Alexsandro Ribeiro, Andrey Santos, and goalkeeper Alisson Becker are all unavailable due to fitness concerns.

In defense, Éder Militão’s condition raised alarms after he came off injured in the Madrid derby, though Ancelotti clarified that he spoke with him and expects him to be fit to play. The list also includes two standout names from the domestic league: goalkeeper Hugo Souza (Corinthians) and center-back Fabrício Bruno (Cruzeiro).

Despite these absences, the coach was clear about his approach: “We’re not here to experiment. I have to focus on the team that will face the World Cup. At this level, there’s no room for tests.”

A project with eyes on 2026

Since taking charge in May, Carlo Ancelotti has overseen four official qualifiers, with a record of two wins, one draw, and one loss in La Paz against Bolivia. This month’s friendlies, along with those planned for November against African teams in Europe, will help fine-tune the core of the squad.

The true test, however, will come in March 2026, when the Seleção is expected to face two top European opponents to gauge its real potential. In the meantime, the return of Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo adds to the excitement around a Brazil determined to reclaim its place at the top of world football.