Carlo Ancelotti, now in charge of the Br azilian national team, has given his thoughts on the squad he is preparing for the 2026 World Cup.
With Br azil already qualified, the Italian coach is using this period to assess players and decide who can make the cut for football’s biggest stage.
One of the names brought up during his press conference was Real Madrid forward Rodrygo.
Surprisingly, Ancelotti has yet to call him up since taking charge, but he made it clear that the young attacker is still very much in his plans moving forward.
"Obviously, memory counts. I know Rodrygo very well, and I know he can contribute a lot to the team."
"We’re evaluating around 70 players, and we’re analysing each one’s physical and tactical level to try to put together the most competitive team possible for the World Cup," Ancelotti said as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
Rodrygo has spent much of the summer linked with a possible exit from Real Madrid, but he eventually decided to stay in Spain.
His focus now is on securing regular minutes under Xabi Alonso, which could play a crucial role in convincing Ancelotti to take him to the World Cup.
The challenge for Rodrygo, however, is not an easy one. In his absence from the national team, younger talents such as Estevao Willian and Luiz Henrique have stepped up, staking their claim for a spot in the Br azil squad.
With competition growing stronger, Rodrygo must prove his value both in La Liga and the Champions League to remain in contention.
At just 24, Rodrygo still has time on his side, but with the World Cup approaching fast, every performance will matter.