Ancelotti Seeks to Revitalize Vinícius Júnior in the Brazilian National Team
Brazil’s new coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has expressed his desire to help forward Vinícius Júnior regain the level of play he has shown at Real Madrid. Ancelotti, who worked with the player on the Spanish team, highlighted Vinícius’ importance to the national team.
Ancelotti, who led Real Madrid to conquer multiple titles with the Brazilian striker, including two Champions Leagues and two Leagues, highlighted Vinícius’s unique ability to destabilize opposing defenses, considering him a crucial asset for the national team.
“I don’t know if he has been at his best here, but he has time to do what he does at Real Madrid. For us, he is a fundamental player. We have to work to ensure that he performs at his best here,” commented Ancelotti to journalists before the World Cup qualifying match against Ecuador, his first match in charge of the national team.
Carlo Ancelotti
Vinícius debuted in the 2022 Qatar World Cup and has been a regular player in the qualifying campaign for the 2026 tournament. However, he has not managed to replicate his best form with the national team, falling short of his usual performance at Real Madrid.
Regarding his tactical approach, Ancelotti seeks a compact and balanced team.
“I don’t want a team with a clear identity. We have to defend well, whether it’s with a 4-3-3 or a 4-4-2. We must defend together and use creativity with the ball. Individual quality is not enough nowadays; it must be combined with attitude, drive, and commitment,” said the coach.
Carlo Ancelotti
Although he didn’t reveal the starting lineup for his debut as coach, Ancelotti praised 18-year-old Estêvão, who will leave Palmeiras to join Chelsea and has been touted as a prospect for the future of the national team.
“He has a special talent… he has character, he is a good person, he is humble and I think that’s good, but with a young player you have to be patient and careful. He has the characteristics to be very important for the future of the national team,” added the coach.
Carlo Ancelotti
Brazil is in fourth position in the South American World Cup qualifying standings, while Ecuador is in second place, behind Argentina. The top six teams will qualify directly for the World Cup.
Brazil will host Paraguay in Sao Paulo next week and could secure their place in next year’s World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
