Ancelotti: Brazil Must Build Their Own Identity, Not Copy Spain
Carlo Ancelotti has made it clear: Brazil’s path forward isn’t about mimicking anyone else—especially not Spain. As the five-time world champions begin a fresh chapter following their exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Italian coach insists the focus must be on sharpening Brazil’s own strengths, not chasing another nation’s blueprint.
Speaking after a disappointing end to the tournament, Ancelotti acknowledged that midfield remains the team’s main area for growth. Yet he remained upbeat about Brazil’s attacking and defensive foundations, stressing that improvement should come from within—not by trying to replicate foreign models.
“Spain have a great system, no doubt,” Ancelotti said. “Rodri, Pedri, Dani Olmo, Martín Zubimendi, Fabián Ruiz, Mikel Merino, Gavi—they’re all elite players. But we don’t need to copy them. We need to learn how to get better at what we already do well.”
Brazil’s 2026 campaign came to an abrupt halt on July 5, 2026, when they fell 1-2 to Norway in the Round of 16 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The defeat ended a campaign where Brazil had progressed from Group C, but failed to maintain momentum against a resilient Scandinavian side.
Despite the early exit, Ancelotti is already looking ahead. His long-term vision for Brazil centres on the 2028 Copa América and the 2030 World Cup—the two major tournaments that will define his tenure. He confirmed he’ll remain in charge until 2030, having turned down an offer to take over Italy’s national team.
Under Ancelotti, Brazil’s rebuild will be built on homegrown talent and sustainable development, not quick fixes or short-term gains. The emphasis is on nurturing young stars, refining technical discipline, and forging a playing identity that’s unmistakably Brazilian—yet modern, adaptable, and competitive.
“This is about building something lasting,” Ancelotti said. “We’ve got quality, we’ve got passion. Now we need to channel it with purpose. The future isn’t about copying Spain—it’s about becoming better versions of ourselves.”