Ancelotti’s Dilemma: Brazil’s Strikers Battling for a World Cup Spot

The abundance of attacking options in the Brazil National Team has become a real challenge for Carlo Ancelotti, who must choose among several forwards competing for a place in the 2026 World Cup squad.

As the next World Cup approaches, the Brazil National Team finds itself facing an unusual problem: too many attacking options. Under the leadership of Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti, the Seleção has assembled a generation of forwards with very different profiles, making the selection process for the final squad increasingly complicated.

The search for the ideal No. 9 is not new for Brazil. In recent international cycles, the team has consistently displayed talent on the wings and in creative roles, but the central striker position has remained a topic of debate. Now, with multiple players performing well in leagues around the world, the coach will be forced to make some difficult decisions.

A Long List of Contenders in Brazil’s Attack

Among the leading candidates is João Pedro, the Chelsea forward who has impressed in Europe not only with his goal-scoring ability but also with his involvement in build-up play. His mobility and capacity to link with teammates make him a modern type of striker.

Another strong option is Matheus Cunha, currently playing for Manchester United. Known for his speed and technical ability, he thrives in attacking spaces and can threaten defenses both inside and outside the penalty area.

One of the most intriguing names in the race is Endrick, the young striker owned by Real Madrid and currently on loan at Lyon. The former Palmeiras standout has regained momentum, and his energy in attack keeps him firmly in contention for a national team call-up.

Endrick celebrates a goal during an Olympique Lyonnais match.

Meanwhile, Vitor Roque has also revived his chances after returning to Palmeiras. The Brazilian forward has rediscovered his scoring touch, which could once again open the doors of the national team.

Experience, Power, and Different Profiles

The competition extends beyond those names. Marcos Leonardo, now playing for Al Hilal, has rediscovered his goal-scoring instincts and remains an appealing option as a classic penalty-area striker.

In the Premier League, Igor Thiago has emerged as one of the season’s surprises with Brentford, showcasing physical strength and a strong presence inside the box—qualities that could prove valuable in a short tournament like the World Cup.

Experience also plays a role. Richarlison, the Tottenham striker, has long been trusted by Brazil’s national team coaches and continues to be a key option whenever he is fully fit.

At the same time, Gabriel Jesus, forward for Arsenal, is looking to regain prominence after recovering from a serious injury. Meanwhile, Pedro, who plays for Flamengo, and Igor Jesús, currently with Nottingham Forest, round out a group of attackers that keeps the debate alive.

With creative stars such as Vinícius Jr., Gabriel Martinelli, Raphinha, and rising talent Estevão, the team already possesses plenty of firepower to generate scoring chances. The remaining question is who will be chosen to lead the line and finish those opportunities.

For Carlo Ancelotti, the issue is not a lack of options—but rather the difficult task of selecting the right ones to represent Brazil at the 2026 World Cup.