Carlo Ancelotti, the Brazil national team coach, attended the Athletico Paranaense versus Flamengo match in the Brasileirão. The visit occurred just before the final squad announcement for the 2026 World Cup.
Ancelotti will make his last in-person observations before announcing the 26-player squad. The announcement event is scheduled for Monday at the Museu do Amanhã in Rio de Janeiro.
Flamengo Players Being Monitored
Seven Flamengo players are being monitored by Ancelotti. These players are Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira, Danilo, Alex Sandro, Lucas Paquetá, Samuel Lino, and Pedro.
The Flamengo defence is under close scrutiny from the CBF technical team. Léo Pereira and Léo Ortiz are competing for a spot on the final list. Danilo and Alex Sandro are considered strong contenders for the call-up.
Danilo and Alex Sandro are almost certain to be included in the World Cup squad. This is largely due to their international experience.
Lucas Paquetá is a key player being observed in the midfield. He is a strong candidate to be in the final World Cup squad.
Samuel Lino is trying to secure a place in the attack. While he is on the pre-list, his inclusion in the final list is less certain.
Pedro is also being monitored and has a chance of being called up. However, his chances are considered less strong.
Other Flamengo Players in Contention for World Cup Spots
Flamengo also have players on the pre-lists of other South American national teams for the World Cup. In total, Flamengo has 12 players on pre-lists.
Arrascaeta, De La Cruz, and Varela are on Uruguay’s pre-list. Jorge Carrascal is being considered for the Colombia squad. Gonzalo Plata is expected to represent Ecuador.
The expectation is that at least nine Flamengo players will be confirmed for the World Cup.
Ancelotti’s Visit to Curitiba
Ancelotti arrived in Curitiba with Rodrigo Caetano, the CBF coordinator, on a private flight. He went directly to the Arena da Baixada to watch the match from a reserved area.
Athletico presented Ancelotti with an official club shirt before the match as a tribute.
Following the game, Ancelotti will return to Rio de Janeiro. He will finalise preparations for the official announcement of the Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup.