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Wednesday, 18 February 2026
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Ancelotti Enjoying Brazilian Carnival, Receives Advice on Neymar

Brazilian coach responds to suggestion about calling up the

Ancelotti Enjoying Brazilian Carnival, Receives Advice on Neymar
7DAYES
6 hours ago
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Brazil - Ekhbary News Agency

Carlo Ancelotti Immersed in Brazilian Carnival Festivities, Faces Questions on National Team Future

Renowned Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti, who is currently at the helm of the Brazilian national football team, is taking advantage of a break in the football calendar to immerse himself in the electrifying atmosphere of the Rio de Janeiro carnival. This iconic South American cultural and entertainment event provided an opportune moment for informal interactions with prominent figures from Brazilian society, including a notable encounter with the celebrated artist Léo Santana.

Amidst the joyous celebrations, artist Léo Santana seized the opportunity to address a topic that resonates deeply with many Brazilian football enthusiasts: the future of star player Neymar da Silva. Santana directly appealed to the Italian coach, expressing his wish for Ancelotti to consider recalling Neymar, who currently plays for Saudi club Al-Hilal, to the national team for upcoming fixtures. This suggestion comes at a time when questions surrounding Neymar's international career persist, particularly following a recent injury that has sidelined him.

Ancelotti did not hesitate to respond to the artist's proposition, conveying his appreciation and thanks for the advice with a simple yet meaningful statement: "Thank you for the advice." This response, seemingly straightforward, carries significant diplomatic weight, reflecting his respect for the artist's opinion and the widespread public interest in a player of Neymar's stature. Ancelotti is known for fostering positive relationships with players and the Brazilian public, consistently demonstrating an openness to diverse perspectives.

This interaction underscores the immense significance Neymar holds within Brazilian football, even with his recent absence from the field and his move to a league perceived as less competitive than European counterparts. Neymar's name remains intrinsically linked to the hopes and aspirations of Brazilian fans yearning for the return of the Seleção's golden era, a sentiment echoed in Santana's appeal. However, the ultimate decision to call up any player rests squarely on the coach's technical vision, his assessment of the player's physical and technical readiness, and the team's strategic needs and future objectives.

Ancelotti faces the considerable challenge of guiding the Brazilian team back to World Cup glory, the ultimate ambition for Brazilian football. This endeavor necessitates the cultivation of a cohesive squad that balances experience with emerging talent, underpinned by flexible tactical approaches capable of overcoming diverse opponents. The Neymar situation represents just one facet of the larger picture Ancelotti is meticulously crafting for the future, as he strives to rebuild confidence and deliver performances befitting Brazil's rich footballing heritage.

Ancelotti has refrained from divulging further details regarding his future plans concerning Neymar or any other player, preferring to focus on enjoying his current period of rest. Nevertheless, his cordial and diplomatic reaction signals his respect for others' opinions, and it is highly probable that these suggestions will be factored into his comprehensive player evaluations. The Brazilian national team is currently navigating a transitional phase, and the decisions Ancelotti makes in the coming months will be pivotal in shaping its trajectory in upcoming international competitions.

Ancelotti's presence in Brazil during the carnival season highlights his engagement with local culture and his efforts to connect with the populace, which could foster a strong rapport between him, the fans, and the players. While the Italian coach enjoys the festive atmosphere, the eyes of Brazilian football aficionados remain keenly focused on his future decisions, particularly concerning seasoned veterans and promising talents who can carry the Seleção's legacy forward.

Keywords: # Carlo Ancelotti # Neymar # Brazil National Team # Léo Santana # Rio Carnival # Brazilian Football # Al-Hilal