Carlo Ancelotti officially commenced his duties as the head coach of the Brazilian national team today, leading his first training session. However, the session took place with an incomplete squad.
The former Real Madrid manager oversaw the Seleção`s initial preparations for their upcoming World Cup qualifier match against Ecuador, scheduled for Thursday.
Held at Corinthians` Joaquim Grava training center, the session was partially open to the press for the first fifteen minutes. Of the 25 players called up by the new coach, only 17 were able to participate.
Eight players were absent for various reasons. Three players who were involved in last Saturday`s Champions League final – Marquinhos and Beraldo from Paris Saint-Germain, and Carlos Augusto from Inter Milan – were not present but are expected to join the squad later tonight, Brazilian time.
Additionally, five players who featured in domestic `Brasilerao` matches yesterday were absent from the main training session, instead undertaking recovery work. These included Estevao, described as a rising talent from Palmeiras, along with Leo Ortiz, Danilo, Alex Sandro, and Gerson, all from Flamengo.
Ancelotti`s Brazil squad is scheduled for another training session tomorrow. The new coach is also facing the task of finding a replacement for Raphinha, who will miss the Ecuador match due to suspension.