Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has announced that the Seleção will begin a rebuilding process following their disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, where they were eliminated in the Round of 16.
Brazil suffered a 2-1 defeat to Norway, ending their hopes of lifting the World Cup trophy for the first time since 2002.
It was Brazil’s earliest World Cup exit since 1990, when they were knocked out by Argentina at the same stage of the tournament. Before the 2026 edition, Brazil had reached at least the quarter-finals in each of their previous eight World Cup appearances.
Norway remains the only national team Brazil has never defeated. In five meetings between the two sides, the Norwegians have recorded three wins and two draws.
Following the tournament, Neymar announced his retirement from international football, while the futures of experienced players such as Casemiro and Marquinhos remain uncertain. Ancelotti confirmed that the focus will now shift to building a new generation of the Brazilian national team.
“We will start building a new team by observing and testing young players, without ruling out those who were with us at the World Cup and who still have a lot to offer the national team,” the Italian coach said.
Brazil’s next major objective is the 2028 Copa América, while the Seleção will play two international friendlies against Australia in September.
Ancelotti is expected to use those matches to give opportunities to emerging talents and begin preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
