Ancelotti signals new era as Brazil move beyond Neymar, Casemiro and Danilo

Speaking to Brazilian broadcaster GE, Ancelotti said the time had come to move on from experienced stars such as Neymar, Casemiro and Danilo as Brazil begin planning for the 2028 Copa America.

Neymar, 34, retired from international football after Brazil were knocked out of the World Cup by Norway in the last 16. Casemiro, also 34, and 35-year-old Danilo have not officially announced their retirements, but Ancelotti indicated they are no longer part of his long-term plans.

"I think this World Cup marks the end of a generation of very important players," Ancelotti said.

"Starting with Neymar, going through Danilo, Casemiro, all those players who were over 30 years old at the World Cup.

"We are going to identify new players who can come in. I'm not saying for the next World Cup in 2030, but players who can already be competitive for our first objective, which is the Copa America in 2028."

The Italian coach, who took charge of Brazil in June 2025, made it clear that the transition will not involve replacing the entire squad.

He believes experienced leaders will still have an important role as younger players are introduced.

"I'm not going to say I'm going to replace all 26 players," Ancelotti said.

"We're going to keep some important players who can continue the work, like Marquinhos, to name one.

"I think it's important that you stay to give a sign of continuity to the work. But the idea is to change and bring in a new generation."

Brazil's rebuilding process begins with two international friendlies against Australia in September as Ancelotti starts assessing new talent ahead of the next Copa America.

The five-time world champions have struggled to reach the heights expected of them in recent years. Since winning the World Cup in 2002, Brazil have reached the semi-finals only once, while their last Copa America triumph came in 2019.

Ancelotti also addressed reports linking him with the Italy national team job after being approached by the Italian Football Federation.

"There was simply contact from the federation, but it's not a contract issue, it's a matter of commitment," he said.

"I have a commitment to Brazil not because I signed the contract. I have a commitment based on the year I spent here, I was very well received, and I don't want to break that commitment."

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