Carlo Ancelotti (66), who is set to lead the Brazil national football team, expressed expectations for the resurgence of Vinicius Junior (25, Real Madrid).

According to Brazil's O Globo on the 5th (Korea time), Ancelotti noted during a press conference regarding Vinicius, "He is doing very well right now. He has recovered from his ankle injury and is as motivated as ever."

Ancelotti will make his debut as Brazil's national team coach in an away match against Ecuador at 8 a.m. on the 6th in the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup South American qualifiers.

Ancelotti took charge of the Brazil national team after leaving Real Madrid at the end of the 2024-2025 season. Though he has left Real, he will reunite with Brazilian players like Vinicius.

In particular, Vinicius rose to stardom under Ancelotti's leadership at Real Madrid. He showcased his presence by finishing second in the Ballon d'Or last season. Ancelotti won the UEFA Champions League twice and La Liga twice with Vinicius at Real.

In contrast to his performance at Real, Vinicius has shown inconsistencies on the Brazil national team. He made his debut for the senior national team in 2019 and became a regular starter in 2022. However, unlike his form at Real, he has faced criticism for his poor performances.

Ancelotti emphasized about Vinicius, whom he coached at Real, saying, "Of course, we expect him to perform at his best, and I believe he will do so." He added, "I’m not sure if he has shown his best form for the national team so far, but he will have plenty of time to do that in the future."

Ancelotti stated, "Vinicius will perform at his best for the national team, just as he did at Real Madrid," and added, "He is an absolutely crucial player for us. There is no debate about that."

Ancelotti explained Brazil's tactics, saying, "Whether it's 4-3-3 or 4-4-2, the important thing is to defend together." He noted, "When we have the ball, we naturally consider the players’ creativity. Individual skills are not enough; we need attitude, drive, and commitment to support that."

Ancelotti discussed young talent Esteban (18, Palmeiras), whose transfer to Chelsea has been confirmed, saying, "He has special talent. He is humble and a player with a good character," and added, "He has the qualities to be a very important figure for the future of the national team, but we must handle him with care."

He also remarked, "I cannot tell Esteban how to dribble. He knows that better than I do," adding, "What I can ask him is to work hard defensively and show creativity in attack."

Meanwhile, Brazil is currently in 4th place in the South American qualifiers. They must work hard until the end to be among the top six teams that can go directly to the finals. First-place Argentina has already secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup finals. Their opponent, Ecuador, currently sits in 2nd place. After facing Ecuador, Brazil will play a home match against Paraguay.

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