Why Carlo Ancelotti could omit Vinicius Junior from Brazil's squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers?

Rwittika Chakraborty

Why Carlo Ancelotti could omit Vinicius Junior from Brazil's squad for upcoming World Cup qualifiers? image

Confederación Sudamericana de Fútbol

Carlo Ancelotti was appointed the head coach of the Brazil national team in May following his dismissal at Real Madrid.

By becoming Brazil’s new manager, Ancelotti still remains in charge at the national level of some of his former players from the Spanish club, including Rodrygo and Vinicius Junior.

However, there may be a bit of bad news for Vinicius in terms of his inclusion in Brazil’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Vinicius has been left out of the national squad for the World Cup qualifiers slated for September, according to GE Globo. The 25-year-old star received a yellow card in Brazil’s last 1-0 victory over Paraguay, which means that he will be suspended for the next qualifying match against Chile on September 4.

With a one-game suspension at hand, Ancelotti has reportedly decided to rest Vinicius for the next clash, which is against Bolivia on September 9. Brazil’s coaching staff have already submitted FIFA’s mandatory preliminary call-up list, and it doesn’t include Vinicius’ name, as per reports.

What’s next for Vinicius Junior?

While Vinicius might not make it to the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, Brazil’s national squad will see a couple of his Real Madrid teammates return to action from injuries, Rodrygo and Eder Militao.

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While Ancelotti’s decision about Vinicius’ exclusion from the squad might not be popular among Brazilian fans, the Italian manager is believed to be helping the winger’s fitness for club and country in the long run.

The final squad list is set to be announced on Monday, August 25.

Vinicius, meanwhile, is expected to feature in Real Madrid’s opening match for the 2025/26 La Liga against Osasuna on August 19 at Santiago Bernabeu.

Vinicius Junior news and related links

Rwittika Chakraborty

Rwittika Chakraborty is a content producer for The Sporting News. Based in India, she holds a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from SRM Institute of Science and Technology.