Ancelotti leaves out Vinicius from Brazil World Cup qualifiers squad

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has left Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior out of his squad for next month’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia.

The 25-year-old is suspended for the clash with Chile on September 5, and Ancelotti has decided not to include him for the Bolivia game five days later.

He prefers that the winger remains in Madrid to rest and recover ahead of a demanding club and international schedule.

Ancelotti’s decision means Brazil will have to do without one of their most dangerous attackers as they continue their qualification campaign.

The Selecão currently sit third in the CONMEBOL standings, behind leaders Argentina and second-placed Ecuador.

Brazil edged Paraguay 1-0 in June and will be hoping to build on that result, with victory over Chile seen as crucial to strengthening their chances of securing a place at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.