Carlo Ancelotti has urged Italy to reclaim the defensive identity that once made the nation the most feared in world football. The Brazil boss believes an obsession with modern tactical trends has left the Azzurri fragile and lacking elite standards, resulting in a third straight failure to qualify for the World Cup.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has taken the extraordinary step of consulting the country's president, Lula, over whether Neymar should be included in the squad for the 2026 World Cup. The Santos forward's international future has become a matter of state importance as he battles recurring fitness issues in his homeland.

Carlo Ancelotti has refused to rule out a fairytale return to the Brazil national team for veteran defender Thiago Silva ahead of the upcoming World Cup. Despite the centre-back now being 41 years old, the Italian tactician believes quality and experience far outweigh any numbers found on a passport.

The debate surrounding Neymar’s place in the Brazilian national team has intensified as the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico draws closer. Neymar has been handed a significant lifeline regarding his international future as Carlo Ancelotti opened the door for a potential World Cup return. Despite missing out on recent call-ups, the forward remains firmly in the thoughts of the Selecao coaching staff ahead of the tournament.