Carlo Ancelotti is not going to place Rodrygo on a pedestal at Brazil just because of their Real Madrid connection. He's made that pretty clear with his actions, but he's now vocalized it.
When it was announced that Carlo Ancelotti would leave Real Madrid last season, it sent shockwaves around the soccer world. The legendary Italian boss, affectionately nicknamed Don Carlo, firmly cemented himself in the Real Madrid history books.
He's not just one of Real Madrid's best ever managers, but he's one of the greatest managers in the history of the sport.
That said, it was high time he left Real Madrid. His final season in the soccer capital of the world was not one to be remembered, and it was time Los Blancos entered a new era.
For Ancelotti, he entered a new era himself. His first-ever international job with Brazil is underway, and he's preparing for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Of course, this has Real Madrid implications. Some of Real Madrid's best players also represent Brazil - Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior and Éder Militão. All three of those players will hope to play a key role yet again under Carlo Ancelotti.
Carlo Ancelotti name drops Rodrygo after Brazil omission
Carlo Ancelotti was recently asked about the omission of Rodrygo from the Brazil squad. To which, Ancelotti recalled great memories of working with Rodrygo, but insisted that the competition for places is high for Brazil. The pitch does the talking, not past ties.
In his own words, Ancelotti said: “Obviously, memory counts. I know Rodrygo very well and I’m sure he can help the team. We’re evaluating around 70 players - physically, technically, and tactically -to put together the most competitive team possible for the World Cup. There are no favourites; ultimately, the field will decide who goes to the World Cup.”
And that makes complete sense, honestly. Real Madrid fans might be annoyed at Carlo Ancelotti, but he's spot on.
In his role as Brazil head coach, he owes no loyalty to any domestic team. This probably explains why Raphinha, who plays for Barcelona, made the squad, but no Real Madrid player did. And that's fine, ultimately.
If anything, Rodrygo fighting for his spot from square one is better for Real Madrid. Between now and decision-making time, Real Madrid fans should expect to see a Rodrygo that's hungrier than ever - A frightening thought for any team except Real Madrid.