Ancelotti finalises World Cup squad list, Neymar the big unknown | OneFootball

On the upcoming May 18, the 26 names that will aim for a sixth World Cup title in the 2026 World Cup will be announced. The abundance of stars and last-minute injury absences have turned the making of the squad list into a true “luxury dilemma” for Ancelotti.

Goal has one undisputed owner in Alisson Becker (Liverpool), but the battle for the backup gloves is heating up. Ederson, Bento, and the rising Hugo Souza (Corinthians) are fighting for the two remaining spots. In defense, the recent news that Éder Militão will miss the World Cup due to surgery.. Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães are locks, while Danilo (Flamengo) emerges as the ideal wildcard thanks to his versatility.

Midfield and attack present the biggest “problems” for the coach due to the sheer amount of talent available. Casemiro and Bruno Guimarães lead the midfield, where names like Lucas Paquetá and Andrey Santos are also in the mix. Up front, injuries to Rodrygo (Real Madrid) and Estêvão open up a range of possibilities to join the untouchable Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, and Matheus Cunha. Names like Endrick, Vitor Roque, and Richarlison are battling neck and neck to be the main striker.

The biggest star, now at Santos, is not going through his best physical spell and has been left out by Ancelotti in recent call-ups due to a lack of full fitness. With the World Cup just around the corner, the big question is whether the coach will bet on the historic pedigree of the “10” or prioritize the current competitive form of the new talents shining in Europe and the Brasileirão.

The names Brazil has to build its 2026 World Cup squad

Goalkeepers:

Defenders:

Defensive Midfielders:

Forwards:

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.