"Vinicius hasn’t shown his level with Brazil? Now, he will"

Carlo Ancelotti, presented on Monday as Brazil's new coach, stated that he called up Vinicius Jr. for the next two matches of the 'Selecao' not only because he considers him one of the best in the world, but also because he hopes he can perform in the same way as he does with Real Madrid.

“I am totally convinced that Vinicius is going to show his best version in the Brazilian national team. He is a very important player for this national team,” said the Italian coach when questioned about the reasons why the striker does not perform as well with the ‘Selecao’ as he is known to do with Real Madrid.

With the Spanish team, under the orders of Ancelotti, Vinicius was vital in the conquest of the European Champions League titles in 2022 and 2024, as well as in other tournaments. With the Brazilian national team, however, he is among the least effective strikers in World Cup qualifiers.

“It is difficult to say why Vini has not shown his new version (of Real) in the national team if he is an extraordinary player, fantastic, fighter and battler,” he said. The Italian said that perhaps the player is affected by the great affection he has for the national team and the anxiety of being able to shine with it.

“He has a lot of affection for the national team and that can sometimes affect him a little, as there is a lot of pressure for him to do well,” he said.

In addition to Vinicius, Ancelotti included in his first Brazil squad list other players he trusts and who had been sidelined from the 'Selecao' for several months, such as midfielder Casemiro and striker Richarlison.

The Italian will make his debut as Brazil's coach on June 5th, when the 'Selecao' will visit Ecuador at the Monumental de Guayaquil for the World Cup qualifiers.

His first match in front of the Brazilian fans will be on June 10th, also in the qualifiers match against Paraguay at the Neo Química Arena stadium in São Paulo.