Carlo Ancelotti is already preparing Brazil for the 2026 World Cup and has his eye on a group of 70 players.

“We are evaluating around 70 players and we analyze both their physical and tactical level to try to put them together for the World Cup the most competitive team possible," said the Italian coach.

Brazil has qualified for the World Cup, but will close the qualifying round against Bolivia in El Alto. The Bolivians are playing for a place in the playoffs and need to beat the Brazilians.

The Brazilian coach highlighted the foundation of some key players in the system he uses for the five-time champions.

Marquinhos, PSG captain, is one of the best defenders in the world due to his experience, intelligence, character, and personality, and described him as a “very important piece for the team.”

Regarding Casemiro, who will not be able to play against Bolivia due to suspension, he said that he is an “irreplaceable” player.

He also praised Estevao, the young Chelsea striker, who can improve and progress to become an important player for Brazil in the future.

The coach left a message of affection for Rodrygo, who sees him as important for the national team, despite not having called him up for this double round of qualifiers.

“Obviously, memory counts. I know Rodrygo very well, and I know he can contribute a lot to the team.

Ancelotti praises Brazil's attitude

The Italian coach said that what he has liked most in the three games he has coached Brazil so far is precisely the team's attitude.

“In my opinion, the attitude was very good and that is an important foundation for the future of the national team,” said Ancelotti at the press conference he gave on the eve of Brazil's visit to Bolivia in their last match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Although Brazil has already guaranteed its place in the World Cup, the coach said that the match against Bolivia is very important to continue testing players.