Ancelotti: “We Must Stop Mbappé”
This FIFA international break will bring an intriguing matchup. Carlo Ancelotti and Kylian Mbappé will face off in the friendly between Brazil and France. The Italian coach previously managed the forward at Real Madrid, so he knows exactly what he is capable of.
That’s why his priority is clear: stop him.
“He is very dangerous, efficient, and quick in finishing,” said Ancelotti, who did not hold back in praising the French star, the main threat in the attacking line of France.
Defensive Issues for Brazil
On top of that, Brazil is dealing with defensive problems. The Canarinha will be without Éder Militão, Gabriel Magalhães, and Marquinhos, raising serious concerns at the back against an opponent of this level.
Ancelotti himself acknowledged that France has quality in every area of the pitch, but emphasized a key factor: avoiding counterattacks. With the speed of players like Mbappé, any loss of possession can quickly become a major problem.
This match also represents a tough test for Brazil, an opportunity to measure their true level against elite competition and begin to silence recent criticism.
The Neymar Situation and Growing Pressure
In the same press conference, Ancelotti spoke about Neymar. The coach was clear: he observes everything, listens to everything, but the final decision is his. It’s worth noting that the Brazilian star is coming off an injury and is not yet at 100 percent physically to compete at the highest level with the national team.
Brazil arrives under pressure. Following a draw against Tunisia, a painful loss to Japan, and a defeat against Bolivia in the qualifiers, criticism toward Ancelotti has continued to grow. Additionally, the demand to win titles again with the national team remains constant.
Their last major triumph was the 2019 Copa América, and on the world stage, Brazil has not lifted the trophy since 2002, when they secured their fifth star. Twenty-four years have passed in the wait for a sixth… and the pressure is starting to build.
