Brazilian football has been given new life under Carlo Ancelotti's masterful guidance, transforming a team once plagued by instability into World Cup contenders. The Seleção had endured four managerial changes and 95 different player call-ups in just one cycle, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty that had left fans doubting their chances. But since Ancelotti took the reins, the mood has shifted dramatically – and for good reason.
The Italian manager's impact on his players has been nothing short of phenomenal. Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, a World Cup veteran, spoke candidly about the challenges faced by the team in recent years: "It’s undeniable that this World Cup cycle has been very difficult for us players. We’ve experienced all these difficulties first-hand." However, he credits Ancelotti with bringing a sense of calm and purpose to the squad, saying, "The peace of mind that comes from an environment focused on work, without having to worry about controversies or other issues" is a welcome change.
Ancelotti's unflappable decisiveness has been a hallmark of his tenure. He's not afraid to make tough calls – as seen in his decision to leave Neymar out of the starting XI when his form and fitness weren't up to par. This bold move contrasts sharply with more cautious approaches, prioritising established names over current performance. And it seems Neymar has accepted his adjusted role, recognising that others like Vinícius Júnior have taken on the mantle as Brazil's top player.
Ancelotti's man-management skills were put to the test during Brazil's thrilling last-32 victory against Japan. Down early, a scenario that often destabilised the team (they'd conceded first in 12 matches since 2023, losing seven and drawing four), Ancelotti rallied his squad with some words of wisdom at half-time. Gabriel Martinelli, the matchwinner, praised Ancelotti's influence: "He gave us a lot of confidence. He said we were going to equalise and then win, that we had to believe in ourselves. You can see from his body language just how calm he is. He passes that confidence on to us."
But it's not just about the Xs and Os – Ancelotti has taken a holistic approach to team preparation, recognising that talent alone isn't enough for World Cup glory. He's integrated Marisa Santiago, Brazil's first-ever World Cup psychologist, into his coaching staff. And what's more, he reportedly consults with her daily, seeking advice on boosting the players' mental resilience and contributing to a positive team culture. It's an innovative strategy that underscores his commitment to optimising every aspect of the squad's performance.