Ancelotti says Brazil squad plans are taking shape after India tour

Carlo Ancelotti says Brazil’s next squad list is already taking shape after the India leg of their tour, with Japan and Singapore waiting in next month’s final international window of the year.

Key takeaways

• Ancelotti rotated all 26 players in his squad during the recent programme.
• Brazil followed their Australia draw and win with a strong showing in Kolkata.
• Estevao broke India’s resistance before Brazil took greater control of the match.
• Nine uncapped players were brought into the senior setup during the window.
• Japan and Singapore are Brazil’s next opponents.

Ancelotti assesses new faces and selection race

The Brazil coach described the camp as productive and said the group had shown there is room for further improvement. He stressed that the team’s priority is to perform at its best, regardless of the standard of opposition, while coping with the pressure surrounding the national side.

Jair earned particular praise for his defensive work, while midfielder Breno Bidon impressed Ancelotti after entering the action and displaying his technical qualities. Arthur Dias and Brazil’s goalkeepers also received positive reviews.

Ancelotti felt Bontempo’s first appearance was stronger than his second, but the wider objective was to test the newcomers and collect evidence before competitive fixtures ahead.

The Italian said players with limited club minutes can find it harder to deliver in an intense international match. He named Estevao and Endrick among those affected by that challenge, while insisting the young players must still be given opportunities.

India match offered tactical test

Brazil initially struggled to find a way through a compact Indian defence in Kolkata’s humid conditions. Ancelotti said the contest changed once Estevao scored, allowing his side to manage possession and the match more effectively.

Vinicius Junior started the game and was Brazil’s principal attacking outlet before leaving at the interval. Endrick replaced Pedro after the break as Ancelotti used the second half to extend the minutes of younger options, with the forward showing flashes of his pace and power.

The coach also alternated between front lines of three and four players, underlining that he is still weighing up the best attacking structure for future qualifiers.

Ancelotti called the window an interesting spell and said he now has a clearer view of the players likely to make his next selection. He does not expect sweeping changes, but intends to examine further young prospects who were not ready for this call-up.