Ancelotti believes the national team "doesn't need" stars, but players who contribute to the team

Brazil's national team coach Carlo Ancelotti believes the squad "doesn't need stars" but rather "high-level players" capable of contributing to the collective effort. In an interview with Folha de São Paulo, the Italian manager, who took charge of the Canarinha in May 2025, stressed that success in crucial tournament stages hinges on the consolidation of a strong team block, where each player's abilities serve the group's overall performance.

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The fans need a 'crack'. But here, in the national team, we don't need a 'crack'. We need high-level players who can contribute to the team.

Ancelotti, with over 1,400 matches managed in his career, humorously noted that only Sir Alex Ferguson has overseen more games. He suggested that Ferguson would be the only one with the authority to give him advice, though he remains open to suggestions from everyone. "I don't know if I understand football or not. But no one can judge if I understand or not. The only truth is that I have prepared more than 1,400 matches. It may not be enough to understand football, but it's good experience," he stated.

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I don't know if I understand football or not. But no one can judge if I understand or not. The only truth is that I have prepared more than 1,400 matches. It may not be enough to understand football, but it's good experience.

Under this team-oriented philosophy, Brazil is gearing up to face Norway in the World Cup round of 16. Ancelotti described the Norwegian team as physically imposing, defensively well-organized, and possessing an experienced coaching staff. He specifically acknowledged the threat posed by Erling Haaland, whom he considers "one of the best players in the world" based on their previous encounters when Ancelotti managed Real Madrid and Napoli.

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I am 100% sure that I am not a genius, but at the same time I am 100% sure that I am not stupid.

However, Ancelotti clarified that Brazil's defensive strategy will not focus on man-marking Haaland but rather on a collective effort to secure the penalty area. Regarding Neymar, who joined the World Cup squad recovering from an injury and missed the first two group matches, Ancelotti confirmed the player is fully fit and available for the entire 90 minutes if needed. He also noted Neymar's acceptance of a substitute role, highlighting the player's "humility" and respect for the coaching staff's decisions, despite not being entirely content with being on the bench.

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one of the best players in the world