Carlo Ancelotti has a clearer picture of Brazil’s future after giving several new faces a chance during the team’s first international tour since the World Cup.
Brazil finished the three match run with a 4-0 victory over India on Saturday. They had earlier played two friendlies against Australia.
Ancelotti made several changes to his team across the three games. Every player in his 26 man squad received playing time. Only Vinicius Jr and Danilo started all three matches.
Eight players also made their Brazil debuts as Ancelotti looked at fresh options following the team’s last 16 exit from the World Cup in July.
Almost two thirds of the players who featured in Brazil’s World Cup squad were not part of this tour.
“We’ve come out of this period feeling positive because the players performed well, although some could do better. Every player has their own character,” Ancelotti said after Brazil completed the tour with two wins and a draw.
“Ultimately, we’re satisfied. It doesn’t matter what standard the matches are at, what matters to us is preparing well for them and trying to do our best, taking all the circumstances into account… I’m getting to know these players much better.”
Vanderson and Samuel Lino scored their first international goals during the tour. Lino struck twice in the comfortable win over India.
Ancelotti believes the three matches have helped him make plans for Brazil’s next squad. They are set to face Japan and Singapore in friendly matches in November.
“It’s been a very interesting period. I have a much clearer idea for the next squad selection,” Ancelotti said.
“Obviously, we won’t be making many changes but we need to develop other young players who weren’t in the squad this time but will be next time,” he added.
The tour gave Ancelotti the chance to test new players and build towards the future as Brazil begin the next stage of their journey after the World Cup.
