No country has won the World Cup more times than Brazil. With five trophies under their belt, the Canarinho are the most celebrated footballing nation in the history of the sport.
In many ways, Brazil took football and turned it into ‘the beautiful game’. They have always been a joy to watch – at their best, the Brazilians are utter spell-binding.
However, it has been a while since Brazil have enjoyed success at the World Cup. They haven’t won the tournament – or reached the final – since 2002.
As such, they will be looking to return to the pinnacle of football this summer. Who will Carlo Ancelotti call upon to play in his Brazil XI at the 2026 World Cup?
GK: Alisson
Alisson isn’t getting any younger, at the age of 33 – likewise, this hasn’t been the best season of his career. Nevertheless, the Liverpool shot-stopper is still one of the best goalkeepers in the world – and of all time.
Barring injury worries, he looks like a lock for this position. Ederson and Bento might run him close, but they aren’t on Alisson’s level as things stand.
RB: Wesley
Wesley only got his first senior cap last year – with Brazil being short of quality at right-back, he has come as an absolute godsend to Ancelotti.
He is a classic Brazilian wing-back – he isn’t the best defender in the world, but he makes up for it with his stellar attacking output.
CB: Gabriel
Is Gabriel the best centre-back in the world at the moment? From an offensive standpoint, the Arsenal man is completely untouchable.
An absolute obelisk of a defender, Gabriel is almost unbeatable in the air. Brazil have been characterised as a soft touch from a defensive standpoint over the years – with Gabriel in their XI, this certainly won’t be the case.
CB: Marquinhos
Gabriel will provide the brawn in Brazil’s defensive line – Marquinhos, on the other hand, will be able to supply the brains and technical ability.
A fantastic passer of the ball, Marquinhos is one of the best ball-playing defenders in the world. As club captain of PSG, arguably the best club side in the world at the moment, the 31-year-old will likely be one of the first names on the team sheet for Ancelotti.