PHOTO CREDIT: EPA Images via Free Malaysia Today
Ancelotti Recalls João Pedro, Estêvão As Brazil Begin Post-World Cup Rebuild
RIO DE JANEIRO – Chelsea duo João Pedro and Estêvão Willian have been recalled to the Brazil national team as head coach Carlo Ancelotti begins a major overhaul following the Selecao’s disappointing 2026 World Cup outing.

The Italian manager on Wednesday announced his first squad since the World Cup, naming a 26-man list for friendlies against Australia and India scheduled for September and October.

João Pedro returns after being omitted from the World Cup squad. The 24-year-old striker was one of the players left out to accommodate Neymar as Brazil crashed out in the Round of 16 against Norway.

Estêvão, who had been a key figure for Brazil before picking up an injury ahead of the tournament, also makes a comeback.

Ancelotti’s new-look squad features several fresh faces, including goalkeepers Pedro Morisco and Otavio, defender Mauro Junior, and midfielders Breno Bidon and Gabriel Bontempo, as the team looks toward the 2030 World Cup cycle.

Several established stars were retained, including forwards Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha, midfielder Bruno Guimarães and defenders Gabriel Magalhães and Marquinhos.

Notable absentees include Neymar, who has announced his international retirement at 34, alongside veteran midfielder Casemiro and goalkeeper Alisson Becker.

According to the schedule, Brazil will face Australia in Townsville on September 25 and in Brisbane on September 29, before traveling to Kolkata to play India on October 3.

SOURCE: PunchNG.com