Ancelotti Delivers Blunt Reality Check to Rodrygo Following Shocking Brazil Omission

Carlo Ancelotti has emphasized that Rodrygo needs to prove himself worthy of a spot in Brazil's national squad following his recent difficulties at Real Madrid.

Ancelotti surprised many when he excluded Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior, Éder Militão and Neymar from his Brazil roster for the September international fixtures. The new manager instead placed his trust in a relatively inexperienced group of players, including 18-year-old Estêvão, to handle matches against Chile and Bolivia.

While Ancelotti initially stated he was providing the four players with necessary rest time, he has now adopted a firmer position that specifically targets Rodrygo's situation.

"Certainly, past performance matters. I'm familiar with Rodrygo's abilities and I believe he can contribute to the team," Ancelotti stated during his pre-match media briefing ahead of Brazil's encounter with Bolivia. "We're assessing approximately 70 players—examining their physical, technical, and tactical qualities—to assemble the strongest possible squad for the World Cup.

"No one has guaranteed spots. In the end, performances on the field will determine who earns World Cup selection," Ancelotti concluded.

Rodrygo lost his standing with Ancelotti during the Italian's closing months managing Real Madrid. Following a scoring slump and deteriorating performances, the winger was dropped for the season's final El Clásico and subsequently didn't feature in any more matches under Ancelotti's guidance.

Even after the renowned coach assumed control of the Seleção, he continued to bypass Rodrygo during both June and September international periods. The 24-year-old has not earned a call-up for his nation since Ancelotti's takeover.

This current situation contrasts sharply with the period when Rodrygo contributed to Ancelotti and Real Madrid's two Champions League victories. However, their shared history doesn't secure Rodrygo's place with Brazil, particularly if he fails to rediscover his previous level.

The attacker must demonstrate his worth to Ancelotti once again, similar to how he needs to impress Xabi Alonso. After managing just 14 goals across 51 matches last season, Rodrygo appears to have lost confidence from both coaches.

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching in just nine months, the Brazilian international faces mounting pressure to earn his way back into Ancelotti's favor if he hopes to reclaim his position in the Seleção's starting eleven.