Here’s everything you need to know about Brazil’s final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Brazil continue to stand tall as one of the giants of international football and will once again enter the 2026 World Cup as one of the leading contenders for the title.

Icons such as Pele, Garrincha, Ronaldo Nazario, Ronaldinho, and Rivaldo have all proudly worn the famous yellow jersey in the past. The Selecao have lifted the World Cup trophy five times — more than any other nation.

However, their recent World Cup campaigns have been underwhelming. After being eliminated in the quarter-finals in 2006 and the round of 16 in 2010, the 2014 tournament brought heartbreak on home soil. Brazil suffered a historic 7-1 defeat to Germany in the semi-final at the Maracana, before the Germans went on to defeat Argentina in the final.

In 2018, Brazil entered the tournament among the favourites but were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Belgium. The 2022 World Cup saw a similar story unfold, as Croatia eliminated them in a tense penalty shootout, again at the quarter-final stage.

Even their performances in the CONMEBOL qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup have been inconsistent. Yet, with Carlo Ancelotti now in charge and several of Europe’s brightest young stars in the squad, there is renewed optimism that Brazil can go deep into the tournament. They will face Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland in Group C.

Here’s a detailed look at the players Carlo Ancelotti has chosen for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

Goalkeepers

Brazil’s goalkeeping department remains one of the strongest in world football. Liverpool’s Alisson is expected to start as the first-choice goalkeeper, while Ederson — formerly of Manchester City — provides a top-quality alternative with his wealth of experience and success under Pep Guardiola. Weverton will serve as the third-choice keeper.

Defenders

The defensive unit boasts a balance of experience and youthful promise. Marquinhos will be a central figure in leading the backline, with former Juventus defender Alex Sandro providing stability on the left flank.

Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhaes enters the tournament after a stellar season and is expected to partner Marquinhos in central defence. Juventus’ Bremer offers another strong option at centre-back.

Midfielders

Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes has emerged as one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders and remains vital for Brazil. He is likely to partner Casemiro, who is set to play his final major international tournament for the Selecao.

Lucas Paqueta, one of Brazil’s top performers at the 2022 World Cup, makes the squad again, while seasoned midfielder Fabinho also earns a recall to provide depth and experience.

Attackers

Brazil’s attack is overflowing with talent and versatility, offering Ancelotti a host of options in the final third.

Much discussion before the squad announcement centred on Neymar’s fitness. The Santos forward has been deemed fit by Ancelotti and returns to the squad, edging out Joao Pedro and Antony.

Vinicius Junior, who has enjoyed tremendous success under Ancelotti at Real Madrid, is expected to start on the left wing, with Gabriel Martinelli available as backup. Real Madrid’s Rodrygo misses out due to injury, while Raphinha, thriving under Hansi Flick, will be a key figure on the right flank.

Either Matheus Cunha or Igor Thiago is likely to feature as the main striker. Rising star Endrick, who has impressed during his loan spell at Lyon after moving from Real Madrid, will also be one to watch.

Premier League forwards Richarlison and Estevao miss out, with Estevao sidelined due to a thigh injury sustained in April.

Brazil’s Key Players

Brazil’s 2026 World Cup squad includes several standout names with the potential to make a decisive impact.

PSG centre-back Marquinhos remains the bedrock of their defence and has been instrumental in PSG’s domestic success. Arsenal’s Gabriel provides both defensive solidity and an aerial threat from set-pieces.

In attack, Vinicius Junior and Raphinha are expected to spearhead Brazil’s offensive charge, while Neymar — likely to feature as an impact substitute — will aim to make his final major international appearance memorable.

Predicted Brazil Starting XI for World Cup 2026

Alisson is expected to retain his position as Brazil’s first-choice goalkeeper, with Ederson as his deputy.

In defence, Ancelotti is expected to maintain his preferred four-man backline. Marquinhos and Gabriel should continue as the central defensive pairing, with Wesley likely slotting in at right-back in place of the injured Vanderson, and Flamengo’s Alex Sandro expected to occupy the left-back role.

In midfield, Bruno Guimaraes and Casemiro will anchor the centre, providing both control and defensive cover. Ahead of them, Vinicius Jr, Matheus Cunha, and Raphinha are set to form a potent attacking trio.

Predicted Brazil starting XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Wesley, Gabriel, Marquinhos, Alex Sandro; Guimaraes, Casemiro; Raphinha, Endrick, Vinicius Jr; Cunha.