Carlo Ancelotti backs 'exemplary' Casemiro as right man to lead Brazil to World Cup and challenges Man Utd midfielder to 'set an example every day'

Casemiro's future was constantly speculated upon in the past year. Following an impressive debut season in 2022-23, the former Real Madrid midfielder showed strong signs of decline with a loss of form and consistency. However, his resurgence in the European campaign under Amorim last season – described by the player as "one of the most successful seasons of his career" – saw him remain at Old Trafford for another season, amid rumours that he could make a big-money move to Saudi Arabia. 

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Ancelotti said: "Casemiro is an exemplary player, respected by all. He has the experience and the character to guide this team. For me, he can be the captain, but I don't know if he agrees with that. He knows the demands of the top level, he knows how to manage difficult moments and motivate his teammates. Being captain is not just about wearing an armband. It's about setting an example every day, on and off the pitch. Casemiro does it naturally."

Upon his appointment as Brazil head coach, Ancelotti immediately recalled Casemiro to the squad for the World Cup qualifiers in June. He started and played the full 90 minutes against Ecuador, returning to the field for the Selecao after almost 20 months. Indeed, the ex-Sao Paulo wonderkid had last played an international in October 2023, after which he was dropped. 

Casemiro could become the permanent captain should Neymar fail to be fit for the 2026 World Cup. Brazil will take on South Korea and Japan on October 10 and 14, respectively, in friendly games.