Brazil’s head coach Carlo Ancelotti has recalled Real Madrid stars Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo to the national squad for upcoming friendlies against South Korea and Japan. The two forwards, who have been instrumental for their club in recent seasons, had missed previous call-ups for different reasons.
Vinícius was suspended during Brazil’s last World Cup qualifier, ruling him out of action, while Rodrygo was not included in the earlier selection as he had limited playing time at the start of the season. Despite that, Ancelotti expressed confidence in Rodrygo, noting that the forward has made a strong impact whenever given an opportunity.
Also making a comeback is Éder Militão, who returns after a lengthy absence caused by a serious knee injury. His inclusion strengthens Brazil’s defensive options as the team prepares for the international fixtures.
On the other hand, Brazil will continue to miss the services of Neymar, who is still recovering from a thigh muscle injury. The veteran forward has been sidelined for months, and medical reports suggest he is unlikely to return before November.
The scheduled friendlies will see Brazil face South Korea in Seoul on October 10, followed by a clash with Japan in Tokyo on October 14. Both matches are expected to serve as crucial tests for Ancelotti as he continues shaping the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Italian coach emphasized that while the call-up reflects the team’s immediate needs due to injuries, it also provides an opportunity to assess younger players who could form part of Brazil’s future core. The return of Vinícius and Rodrygo, in particular, is expected to add firepower to Brazil’s attack, intensifying competition for starting roles in a squad already rich with talent.
As anticipation builds for the October fixtures, attention will be on how the returning stars perform and whether they can cement their places ahead of more competitive international assignments.
IMAGE : SUPERSPORT
