Ancelotti shakes up Brazil squad with surprise Flamengo pick | OneFootball

Carlo Ancelotti’s first Brazil squad announcement featured some familiar faces—and a few surprise calls that have sparked debate, especially among observers of Flamengo. The inclusion of Danilo, the [Flamengo](https://sportseye.io/clubs/127) player, prompted questions from journalist Wallace Borges, who said, “I don’t see any sense in Danilo, even understanding he has Ancelotti’s trust. That said, I agree with the majority of the squad. Casemiro’s return is very important.”

Ancelotti’s list consists of 23 players for the upcoming World Cup qualifying matches: Ecuador on June 5 in Guayaquil and Paraguay on June 10 in São Paulo. With Brazil still yet to secure mathematical qualification, these fixtures take on heightened importance.

Borges wasn’t alone in his skepticism about certain selections, with other commentators also questioning omissions and inclusions. However, aside from Danilo’s place, much of Ancelotti’s list has been well-received. The nod to Casemiro, especially after his period out of the side, was highlighted as particularly crucial.

Meanwhile, attention at Flamengo remains divided between national team matters and domestic affairs. The club’s recent performances—and controversial moments—have kept their players in the headlines for more than just selection news. Danilo’s call-up follows a period in which [Flamengo](https://sportseye.io/clubs/127) have navigated injury worries with Gerson, ongoing match-fixing allegations involving Bruno Henrique, and officiating debates after a highly scrutinized win over Palmeiras.

Ancelotti’s impressive managerial pedigree is well documented and sets high expectations for his tenure. The Italian is the only coach to have won the Champions League five times, with notable triumphs at both Milan and Real Madrid, alongside domestic league titles in Italy, England, France, Germany, and Spain.

As Brazil prepare to resume their qualifying campaign, discussion is likely to continue around some squad choices—and, in Flamengo’s case, whether club form and controversy have influenced national team dynamics. For Danilo, opportunity awaits to make his mark amid competing opinions.

Source: Lance