Ancelotti Says Brazil Must Improve Without Copying Spain
Brazil's head coach believes the national team should learn from the world's best sides while maintaining its own identity as it builds toward the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Carlo Ancelotti has outlined his long-term vision for Brazil, insisting that the national team must rebuild around young talent without trying to replicate the playing style of reigning world champion Spain.
Following Brazil's 2026 FIFA World Cup elimination against Norway, the Italian manager explained that a new cycle has begun, with the 2028 Copa América and the 2030 World Cup serving as the project's primary objectives. While praising Spain's outstanding midfield—featuring stars such as Rodri, Pedri, Dani Olmo, Martín Zubimendi, Fabián Ruiz, Mikel Merino, and Gavi—Ancelotti stressed that Brazil's priority is to improve its own weaknesses rather than imitate another national team.
"We don't need to copy Spain; we need to learn how to improve," Ancelotti said, identifying midfield as the squad's biggest area for development while expressing confidence in the team's defensive and attacking foundations.
The veteran coach also reflected on Brazil's loss to Norway, admitting that a hydration break changed his reading of the match. He acknowledged that tactical substitutions made after the stoppage coincided with Erling Haaland's decisive late goal, a moment he now views as a turning point.
Looking ahead, Ancelotti plans to strengthen the pathway between Brazil's youth teams and the senior squad, highlighting emerging talents such as Endrick, Estêvão, Rayan, and Vitor Reis. He also confirmed that Neymar's international career has come to an end, emphasizing the importance of building a balanced team that prioritizes collective strength over individual stars.
Backed by the Brazilian Football Confederation and committed through 2030, Ancelotti remains determined to guide Brazil back among world football's elite.
