Carlo Antlotti says Brazil can win 2026 World Cup and hail Vinicius ‘strong actor’
Brazil Manager Carlo Ancolotti believes that his side can go all the way to next year’s cup and insists that Xabi ANCONO has all the qualities to succeed as the coach of Real Of Real Madrid, the club Antlotti managed for six years.
In an interview published on Wednesday, the 66-year-old spoke candidly about various topics, including his decision to take the Brazilian job, the “strong character” of Vinicius Junior, and the possibility of Vinicius returning to the international stage.
Brazil ranks in the 2026 world cup
Angelotti, the only coach in history to lift the Champions League five times, enjoyed a glorious managerial career at the Bernabeu, winning 15 trophies, including the European club competition.
He left in the summer to become manager of Selcao, who had not won a men’s World Cup since 2002. But the Italian believes he can enjoy more success at football’s showcase event in the US, Mexico and Canada next year.
“We have the quality to compete and fight for the World Cup,” Ancelotti said.
“The goal is to win our sixth national championship, and that’s what we need to remember to stay motivated.
“The love of the fans is amazing. The stadiums are always full and people are very dedicated to their clubs. And to the national team. They dream of Brazil competing again.
“That will help us in the World Cup.”
His opinion on Vinicius Junior and Neymar
Despite having a squad full of talent, most of Brazil’s hopes of victory will rest on the shoulders of Vinicius, who Ancateri has mastered during his time in the Spanish capital.
And while he admitted the winger hasn’t emulated his club form at the international level, Ancolotti is questioning the 25-year-old’s qualities.
“For the national team, he [Vinicius] could not reach the level he used to have at Real Madrid.
“But in the last few games, he has improved and done very well for Brazil, scoring goals and providing assists. No one can argue with his qualities. Vini is still at a high level.”
Asked about the recent dismissal of Vinicius after being substituted in Los Blancos’ 2-1 el Clasico Win over Barcelona, he later apologized but ordered the rumors of a face-off with Alenso, Ancolotti called the player’s action “.
He said: “Hey [Vinicius] Just make a mistake that day and he needs to understand his new role at Re Madrid, a more important role in the dressing room than ever before. He made a mistake, he apologized, and he should learn from it. “
Antlotti added that the loss of the 2024 ballon d’or after pulling out the event, he believes, touched Vinicius but acknowledged his power.
“Maybe he touched him a little bit, but now Vini is close to his good form. He plays well and is decisive.
“Vini has a strong character; he doesn’t dwell too much on his mistakes or the criticism he receives. He looks forward very quickly.”
The Brazilian manager did not rule out the possibility of a return to the team of Neymar, who has not qualified for the Selecao since 2023, but fitness was raised and suggested fitness could be a problem for the 33-year-old Santos player.
“No one can argue with Neymar’s talent, but he had some problems with injuries recently,” Ancelotti said.
“He is behind to play now, but he needs to find his best physical condition. It is normal in today’s football, which is very demanding physically.”
