How Brazil call-ups shape Flamengo’s planning before the 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Brazil have called Flamengo trio Léo Pereira, Danilo and Alex Sandro for friendlies against France and Croatia on 26 and 31 March. According to Globo.com, the call-ups will shape Flamengo’s planning.

The players report after facing Corinthians on 22 March, with the calendar paused for the FIFA window. Brazil play on 31 March and the CBF plans a 1 April restart, when Flamengo face Red Bull Bragantino.

Léo Pereira and Alex Sandro are starters under Leonardo Jardim. Flamengo aim to have them available straight after windows, though this will be reviewed with further call-ups likely.

For now, Léo Pereira is involved only this window and his World Cup place is not guaranteed, with a centre-back spot still open. Danilo and Alex Sandro are expected to make Ancelotti’s final list. Brazil assemble on 25 May, the league pauses from 1 June to 22 July, and call-ups will miss at least one club game.

Flamengo’s staff liaise frequently with Brazil’s coaches, exchanging physical data during camps. The priority is to reduce injury risk and manage fatigue on return, which could influence immediate selection.

At 35, Alex Sandro is the biggest concern and is closely managed. He is eyeing a last World Cup, his deal runs to the end of 2025 and, while the board want to renew, he may seek a less demanding market next year. Danilo is not a starter and is considering retiring at the end of 2025 after a third World Cup, with the club awaiting his decision.

Source: Globo.com