Carlo Ancelotti: Brazil ‘best in the world’, says new national team boss

Ancelotti has selected Manchester United midfielder Casemiro and Tottenham forward Richarlison in his first squad for next week’s World Cup qualifiers.

The pair have not played for their country since a 2-0 loss to Uruguay in October 2023.

The 25-man group also includes Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, Fulham midfielder Andreas Pereira, Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli and Wolves’ Matheus Cunha, who is set to move to Manchester United.

Antony, on loan at Real Betis from Manchester United, is expected to play in the Conference League final for the Spanish side against Chelsea on Wednesday and he has also been picked.

Striker Neymar has been ruled out as he recovers from a thigh injury he sustained in April, although he made a substitute appearance for Santos on Sunday in their 1-0 win over Vitoria in Brazil’s Serie A.

Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Bento (Al-Nassr), Hugo Souza (Corinthians).

Defenders: Alex Sandro, Danilo, Leo Ortiz, Wesley (all Flamengo), Alexsandro (Lille), Lucas Beraldo, Marquinhos (both Paris St-Germain), Carlos Augusto (Inter Milan), Vanderson (Monaco).

Midfielders: Andreas Pereira (Fulham), Andrey Santos (Strasbourg), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Ederson (Atalanta), Gerson (Flamengo).

Forwards: Antony (Real Betis), Estevao (Palmeiras), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Matheus Cunha (Wolves), Raphinha (Barcelona), Richarlison (Tottenham), Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid).