Two Manchester United players are set to be impacted by Carlo Ancelotti becoming Brazil national team manager.
In what has been the worst-kept secret in the footballing world, Xabi Alonso is set to replace Carlo Ancelotti as Real Madrid manager, with the Italian taking charge of the Selecao ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
It has already been suggested that Casemiro is ready to be recalled to the Brazil squad by Ancelotti, rekindling a successful relationship that was built at Real Madrid.
There are no international tournaments taking place this summer, which is good news for United because it means our players won’t burn out before the new campaign begins. They will need extra time to rest after a post-season tour of Asia.
United will also be travelling to the United States later in the summer for their pre-season tour.
Diego Costa outlines why Brazil need Casemiro
The appointment of Ancelotti has led to many reactions in Brazil.
They have gone for a foreign coach this time, but Ancelotti is quite the exception, as one of the biggest names in world football.
Former Brazil striker Diego Costa never played under Ancelotti, but he is excited by the prospect of the Italian leading his country at the World Cup.
“Ancelotti has a big name, and his resume is extensive,” Costa told The National. “In Brazil right now, people have a lot of doubts about the players and the coach.
“So, in the end, they should bring in someone who’s won so much. That would bring some pace to the players, ease the tension there is here in Brazil. Ancelotti will undoubtedly help.
“Brazil has never had a foreign coach, but things are changing and he can handle the pressure.”
Ancelotti’s arrival is likely to see Casemiro recalled to the national squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Costa, who considers the United star a ‘legend’, believes there are three reasons why Brazil have missed Casemiro in recent times.
“Casemiro is a legend, right? One of the best and he must come back to the Brazilian national team. He has experience, he fights, he battles, he hits the target, he knows where the pitch is.
“So he should be selected because Brazil has a very young team and he has experience and respect. There are players in Brazil right now who are very young, they’re not manly enough to withstand the pressure, the criticism, to swallow it and fight, to change opinions.
Casemiro should be a very important player for the national team. I don’t know why he stopped playing in Manchester but I’m glad he’s playing again.”
Three factors for Brazil missing Casemiro, as outlined by Costa:
- Experienced fighter
- Demands respect from younger players
- Withstands the pressure
At the age of 33, it sounds like Casemiro could still have a big role to play for Brazil.
United fans will hope Casemiro continues to perform at his best if he spends another season at Old Trafford.
‘Messed up’ Antony back in contention for Brazil squad
After enjoying a resurgence on loan at Real Betis, Antony could also make a return to the Brazil national team, after missing recent call-ups to the squad.
There are a lot of changes Ancelotti can make and he will be eager to see all of his players in action before naming a squad to compete at the World Cup.
Former Chelsea striker was also asked about Antony and admitted his off-field issues in the past distracted him from playing at the highest level.
Costa added: “So Anthony lacked a little patience. He also went through a lot of messed up things. I know about family issues.
“So the kid’s head was very messed up because he’s very talented. Antony is very good, and look, now that he’s happy, he’s calm, he’s having an impressive season.
It’s very easy to criticise from the outside, but as players, our heads count for a lot. If we’re not clean, it ends up affecting the field.
“He had a very difficult problem behind him because of the accusation against him but now he’s fine. He’s calm. He’s happy and confident. Look how he’s doing at Betis.
“If he carries on like this he’s a player who’s going to be there to play in the World Cup.”
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