Brazil Turns the Page: Ancelotti Confirms Neymar, Casemiro and Danilo Won’t Feature in 2028 Copa America Plans

Brazil is preparing for a generational shift, with coach Carlo Ancelotti confirming that Neymar, Casemiro and Danilo will no longer be part of the national team’s plans as the Seleção builds toward the 2028 Copa America. Speaking to Brazilian broadcaster ge, Ancelotti said the focus is now on ushering in a younger squad capable of competing at the highest level.

Neymar, 34, has already retired from international football after Brazil’s World Cup round‑of‑16 loss to Norway. Casemiro, also 34, and Danilo, 35, have not formally announced retirements, but Ancelotti made clear that Brazil is moving forward. “I think it’s important that you stay to give a sign of continuity to the work. But the idea is to change, to bring in a new generation,” he said.

Ancelotti also addressed reports that the Italian football federation (FIGC) had approached him about managing Italy. He confirmed contact but insisted his commitment lies firmly with Brazil. “There was simply contact from the federation, but it’s not a contract issue, it’s a matter of commitment,” he said. “I have a commitment to Brazil not because I signed the contract. I have a commitment based on the year I spent here, I was very well received, and I don’t want to break that commitment.”

The Italian coach, who took charge of Brazil in June 2025, said the team will begin mapping out new talent capable of competing not only in the long term but immediately. “We are going to map out new players who can enter, I’m not saying for the next World Cup in 2030, but who can already be competitive in the first objective, which is the Copa America in 2028.”

Brazil, set to face Australia in two friendlies this September, has reached the World Cup semi‑finals only once since their fifth title in 2002 and has not lifted the Copa America trophy since 2019. Ancelotti stressed that the overhaul will not be absolute. “I’m not going to say I’m going to replace all 26 players. We’re going to keep some important players who can continue the work, like Marquinhos, to name one.”

A new era is beginning one built on youth, continuity and a renewed push to restore Brazil’s dominance on the world stage.