Ancelotti promises careful player management as Brazil prepare for Japan friendly

Carlo Ancelotti has assured clubs that Brazil’s players will return from international duty in good condition, with their workload being carefully managed during the friendly against Japan in Kallang, Singapore.

The Brazil head coach was speaking at a news conference before the match, which takes place on 14 November 2026.

“Japan are a highly competitive opponent,” Ancelotti said. “They have shown in recent years how well they perform and how much they have developed. They also proved that at the World Cup. They have some excellent players and it will be a very demanding match for us.”

Ancelotti said the Brazil squad were eager to play and proud to represent their country.

“All the players are happy to be here and want to play,” he added. “Wearing the Brazil shirt is a source of pride for everyone.”

The Italian also praised Raphinha’s form for both Brazil and Barcelona, saying the winger could be used as a forward.

“Raphinha is performing very well here and with his club Barcelona,” said Ancelotti. “He is showing exceptional quality with the Catalan side and can play for us as a striker.”

Responding to concerns from clubs about injuries, Ancelotti said player welfare would remain the priority.

“The priority is always to protect the player’s health,” he said. “If a player is able to participate and is 100% fit, he will play. We will manage the minutes of all the players and assess each individual. We have the information needed to control how many minutes each player plays.”

He added: “All the clubs can feel reassured about their players being with the national team. We have a top-level staff and the players’ health is the priority. They will return to their clubs in good condition.”

Ancelotti said Lucas Perri had impressed him in goal and was developing well at Torino.

“I see him as a very confident and composed goalkeeper,” he said. “He is doing excellent work with Torino and is another player within the group.”

The manager said he had already identified the players he was considering for the match but would not reveal the line-up. Tests carried out over the previous few days had helped determine who was ready to feature.

Ancelotti also highlighted the value of wingers who can operate in central areas. He recalled using Angel Di Maria in that role at Real Madrid and said Joao Gomes could perform a similar function.

On the changes made since the World Cup, Ancelotti said his assessment of the players had produced “very positive” results. Some players had been unable to join the squad, but he remained pleased with the group’s progress.

“Criticism is normal,” Ancelotti said. “We are going through a transition involving new players and are working to build a strong group for the future.”

He said Brazil possessed both talent and a positive training spirit, although experience was still lacking.

“Experience cannot be bought, while talent cannot be manufactured,” he said. “We have talent and will continue to support it. Some players are not playing for their clubs, and we have to help and support them.”