'I know Rodrygo very well' - Carlo Ancelotti breaks silence on Real Madrid forward’s absence from Brazil squad

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has faced criticism during the current FIFA window for leaving Neymar and Rodrygo out of his squad for the matches against Chile (3-0) and Bolivia, the latter set for Tuesday. While the situation with Neymar has already been addressed - the Italian clarified it was purely a tactical decision and not injury-related - the absence of Rodrygo has raised eyebrows. Despite being one of Brazil’s biggest names, the Real Madrid forward has not been included in either of Ancelotti’s two call-ups so far. The two men worked together during their time in Spain, with Ancelotti having managed Rodrygo at Los Blancos between 2021 to 2025. 

“Obviously, memory counts. I know Rodrygo very well and I’m sure he can help the team. We’re evaluating around 70 players - physically, technically, and tactically - to put together the most competitive squad possible for the World Cup. There are no favorites; ultimately, the pitch will decide who goes to the World Cup,” Ancelotti said at his press conference.

In his first list, Ancelotti explained Rodrygo was left out to “give him rest” after a demanding season. This time, he admitted it was a “technical decision.” The Madrid No. 10 will have chances to win back his spot in Brazil’s upcoming friendlies in October and March, ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

With Brazil already qualified, Ancelotti revealed he will rotate his lineup against Bolivia, where the match will be played at nearly 12,000 feet above sea level. 

“Yes, my idea is to make some changes. We’re evaluating player fatigue. There’s a factor here we have to consider, and that could affect our strategy," he explained. "I’m gathering input from players who have played under these conditions, since I don’t have much personal experience. The national team, however, has played there many times - it’s nothing new for Brazil. Our plan is to adjust both the strategy and the players.”

He also highlighted the personal value of the trip: “I consider this a very special experience. I’ve never been to Bolivia, never to La Paz. For me, it’s an important opportunity. I’m excited and eager for my team to play well and win, which is always the goal.”

Brazil will visit Bolivia this Tuesday to close out the qualifiers. In October, they’ll face Japan and South Korea in friendlies - the same opponents currently lined up for the USMNT and Mexico.