Ancelotti Confirms Estevao Will Stay in Brazil Plans Despite Chelsea Role
Carlo Ancelotti has made clear that Estevao remains firmly in Brazil’s World Cup plans, despite the 19-year-old’s limited recent involvement at Chelsea. The Brazil coach said the forward will continue to receive call-ups and is set to be given an opportunity in the forthcoming international fixtures against Australia.
Estevao included in Brazil’s long-term plans
Ancelotti addressed the winger’s situation before Brazil begin a two-match series in Australia, followed by a meeting with India on the international tour. He stressed that decisions made by clubs will not dictate the Selecao’s selection policy, particularly where younger players with major potential are concerned.
“At times, what a club needs is different from what the national team needs,” Ancelotti said. “Estevao and the other young players matter enormously to us. Even if he is not playing many minutes for his club, I will select him because we see him as important for the future and want to give him chances to develop.”
The Italian believes continued international exposure can help protect the confidence and progress of Brazil’s emerging players. Estevao is regarded as one of the key young attackers in a squad Ancelotti is shaping with the next World Cup in mind.
Ancelotti names side for Australia opener
In an unusually open pre-match briefing, Ancelotti read out the entire Brazil starting team for the first match against Australia. Estevao will start in a forward line that also includes Raphinha, Endrick and Vinicius Junior.
- Hugo Souza will start in goal.
- Matheuzinho, Marquinhos, Vitor Reis and Douglas Santos will form the defence.
- Danilo and Bruno Guimaraes are selected in midfield.
- Estevao, Raphinha, Endrick and Vinicius Junior will make up the attacking group.
After revealing his selection, Ancelotti joked with those present not to expect the same approach regularly: “Do not get used to it, do not get used to it.”
The coach also highlighted Raphinha’s strong form with Barcelona and reiterated his faith in Vinicius, who remains one of Brazil’s leading attacking figures.
Tour to test depth and younger players
Brazil’s matches in Australia and the subsequent India fixture are intended to build cohesion while giving Ancelotti a closer look at squad depth. The programme is also part of a wider effort to bring young talent into the senior set-up without losing tactical balance.
Ancelotti backed CBF initiatives aimed at developing both creativity and tactical discipline through Brazil’s age groups. He also supported domestic squad regulations intended to increase top-flight opportunities for young Brazilian players.
For Estevao, the immediate reward is a place in the starting XI against Australia. For Ancelotti, it is another step in building a Brazil side that can combine established stars with the country’s next generation.
