Aapbiti NewsBrazil’s Troubling World Cup Preparations
Brazil, a nation synonymous with football dominance, is in one of its most turbulent phases in recent history. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the five-time champions find themselves without a permanent coach, struggling for form, and lacking cohesion.
For a country that has long set the benchmark for international football, these struggles are concerning. The question remains: Can Brazil fix their issues in time to reclaim their place at the top of world football?
A Historically Poor World Cup Qualification Campaign
Brazil’s qualification campaigns have typically been straightforward, but the 2026 edition has been anything but easy. Their form has been unconvincing, their tactics unclear, and their squad selection inconsistent.
The 1-4 defeat to Argentina in a World Cup qualifier was their worst loss in history in a qualifying match. This is not the Brazil fans are accustomed to seeing.
Why is Brazil Struggling in the Qualifiers?
- Lack of Tactical Clarity – With no permanent head coach, Brazil has no clear identity or playing style.
- Inconsistent Squad Selection – Frequent changes in squad composition have prevented players from developing chemistry.
- Defensive Vulnerabilities – Unlike past Brazilian teams, which had rock-solid defenses, the current squad struggles to maintain shape and discipline.
- Underperforming Stars – Big names like Vinícius Jr., Raphinha, and Richarlison have failed to deliver consistently for the national team.
Brazil’s Managerial Void: Who Will Take Charge?
One of the biggest challenges facing Brazil is the absence of a permanent head coach. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has struggled to find a long-term solution, leaving the team in a state of confusion.
Carlo Ancelotti: The Ideal Solution?
The most heavily linked candidate has been Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti. However, Ancelotti’s contract with Madrid complicates matters. While he is regarded as one of the best tacticians in football, his potential appointment remains uncertain.
Why Brazil Needs a Manager Immediately
Brazil cannot afford to delay the appointment of a new manager any longer. With the World Cup fast approaching, every passing day without a head coach puts the team at a significant disadvantage. A lack of leadership, tactical direction, and stability has already started affecting the squad, leading to inconsistent performances and low morale.
A national team of Brazil’s stature requires a clear vision and structured approach to maintain its dominance in world football. The absence of a manager means that crucial team-building exercises, tactical adjustments, and player selections are being put on hold. This delay not only disrupts continuity and player development but also hinders Brazil’s ability to strategically prepare for high-stakes competitions like the World Cup.
Tactical discipline is another major concern. Without a head coach to implement a clear playing style, Brazil risks becoming disorganized and reactive rather than proactive in their approach. Football today demands a well-structured system, and teams that fail to establish a cohesive tactical identity often struggle against elite opposition. The longer Brazil waits, the more difficult it becomes to create synergy among players and develop a competitive edge.
Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding the managerial role impacts player confidence. Players need a leader who can inspire them, set clear objectives, and provide guidance during crucial moments. Without a coach to instill belief and discipline, the team may continue to underperform in critical matches, as seen in recent disappointing results.
Appointing a world-class manager will not only bring stability but also help Brazil maximize the potential of its talented squad. The right coach can rebuild team morale, instill a winning mentality, and establish a tactical system that suits the strengths of players like Vinícius Jr., Rodrygo, and Bruno Guimarães. If Brazil wants to reclaim its place at the top of world football, securing a top-quality manager must be the top priority—without further delay.
Why Are Brazil’s Star Players Struggling Internationally?
Club vs. Country: The Difference in Performance
Brazil has some of the most talented players in world football, but their performances for the national team have been underwhelming.
Stars like Vinícius Jr. and Raphinha have excelled in European club football but have failed to translate that success to the international stage.
Gilberto Silva pointed out a key reason for this:
- In club football, players train together daily, allowing them to develop chemistry and tactical understanding.
- In international football, national teams come together only a few times a year, making it difficult to create a cohesive unit.
Lack of a Playmaker in Midfield: Brazil’s Missing Creative Spark
One of the biggest concerns for Brazil in recent years has been the lack of a true playmaker in midfield. In the past, they boasted legendary names like Ronaldinho, Kaka, and Rivaldo, who could single-handedly dictate the game, orchestrate attacks, and carve open defenses with their vision and creativity. However, the current squad lacks a player with similar qualities, leaving a noticeable gap in their ability to control matches.
Without a midfield general, Brazil struggles to maintain possession, dictate the tempo, and break down defensively compact teams. The absence of a technically gifted playmaker means that the team often relies on individual brilliance from wingers and forwards, making their attacks predictable. While players like Bruno Guimarães and Lucas Paquetá provide energy and skill, they do not possess the elite-level playmaking ability required to unlock defenses consistently.
This deficiency has been particularly evident in matches where Brazil has faced teams that sit deep and defend in numbers. In such situations, a creative midfielder is crucial for breaking lines with incisive passes, controlling the rhythm of the game, and linking the midfield with the attack smoothly. However, without that presence, Brazil often looks disjointed and struggles to sustain meaningful attacking sequences.
Historically, Brazil’s success has been built on a balance of flair, creativity, and tactical discipline. The team always had midfielders who could not only dictate play but also provide a threat in the final third, whether through goals, assists, or intelligent movement. Today, that missing link has made the team overly reliant on wide players like Vinícius Jr. and Raphinha, limiting their attacking variations.
To solve this issue, Brazil must either identify and develop a natural playmaker or adjust their tactical setup to compensate for this weakness. If they fail to do so, their struggles in controlling matches and breaking down disciplined defenses will continue, making it harder to compete at the highest level.
Dunga’s Warning: Building a Champion Takes Time
Brazil’s History of Inconsistency
Former Brazil captain and World Cup winner Dunga has urged patience, reminding fans that between 1970 and 1994, Brazil failed to win a World Cup despite producing some incredible talents.
His message is simple:
- Success doesn’t happen overnight.
- Talent alone isn’t enough—teams need structure, discipline, and a long-term vision.
- Brazil needs to stop looking for quick fixes and instead focus on long-term development.
The Psychological Pressure of Playing for Brazil
Brazilian players are under immense pressure to perform at the highest level. Unlike other footballing nations, where expectations are realistic, Brazil’s fans and media demand perfection.
Gilberto Silva pointed out:
- Winning is expected. Even small setbacks are heavily criticized.
- Brazilian players must develop mental toughness to handle the intense scrutiny and pressure.
Why Has Brazil’s Playing Style Changed?
From Beautiful Football to Pragmatic Football
Brazil has historically been known for “Joga Bonito”, a style characterized by flair, creativity, and attacking dominance. However, in recent years, Brazil has adopted a more pragmatic approach, focusing more on defensive solidity than attacking brilliance.
Has Brazil Lost Its Identity?
Many argue that Brazil no longer plays with the same attacking confidence. Instead of being the world’s most feared team, they have become predictable and conservative.
How Can Brazil Regain Its Identity?
- Encourage attacking football – Bring back the free-flowing style that made Brazil famous.
- Develop playmakers – Find midfielders who can control the game and create chances.
- Prioritize youth development – Invest in young players who fit the Brazilian football philosophy.
Comparing Brazil’s Current Team to Their Past Generations
2002 vs. 2026: A Stark Contrast
Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning squad is considered one of the greatest teams ever.
2002 Team Strengths:
- World-class midfielders – Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, Gilberto Silva.
- Lethal strikers – Ronaldo, Rivaldo.
- Defensive leaders – Cafu, Roberto Carlos, Lucio.
2026 Team Weaknesses:
- Lack of leadership – No clear captain or dominant figure.
- Inconsistent finishing – No reliable goal-scorer.
- Weak midfield – No established playmaker.
If Brazil wants to compete for the 2026 World Cup, they must bridge the gap between their current squad and their legendary teams of the past.
What Brazil Must Do to Fix Their Problems
1. Appoint a Permanent Head Coach Immediately
Brazil needs leadership now. Whether it’s Ancelotti or another top-tier coach, they must make a decision quickly.
2. Improve Squad Chemistry
More international friendlies and training camps are needed to help players build chemistry and tactical understanding.
3. Strengthen the Midfield
Brazil must develop or find a creative playmaker who can dictate play and control the tempo of matches.
4. Build Mental Toughness
Players must develop the resilience needed to handle the enormous expectations placed upon them.
Brazil’s Future: Can They Regain Their Dominance?
Brazil stands at a crossroads. With the right decisions, they can rebuild and challenge for the 2026 World Cup. But if their struggles continue, they risk falling behind other footballing giants like Argentina, France, and England.
Time is running out. Will Brazil find its way back to the top, or are they destined for another disappointing World Cup campaign?
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