Brazil coach Ancelotti: ‘Wesley is doing well at Roma, I’m satisfied’

Roma wing-back Wesley has earned praise from Carlo Ancelotti as the Brazil coach weighs up his options ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

The Brazilian is enjoying a strong debut season in Serie A, quickly adapting to the tactical demands of Italian football under Gian Piero Gasperini. With 35 appearances, four goals and two assists across all competitions, Wesley has emerged as one of Roma’s standout performers following his summer arrival.

Ancelotti, who is preparing to finalise his squad after upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia, admitted there are still only a handful of places available, and competition remains fierce, particularly in wide areas.

“There are four or five places still open, and we have many doubts,” he told SBT Brasil, with quotes via TuttoMercatoWeb.

epa12137461 Italian Carlo Ancelotti attends a press conference where he was presented as new head coach of men’s Brazilian national soccer team in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 26 May 2025. Ancelotti announced his first squad list for Brazil’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay. EPA-EFE/Andre Coelho

Brazil boss Ancelotti praises Roma man Wesley

Despite acknowledging a relative shortage of traditional full-backs compared to previous Brazilian generations, Ancelotti singled out Wesley as a positive development.

“We have players ready in that position: the young Wesley is doing very well at Roma. For our team, I’m satisfied.”

His form in Italy has put him firmly in contention for a place in Brazil’s final squad, with the national team looking to refresh its options on the flanks. Wesley’s attacking output and ability to settle quickly in a demanding league have strengthened his case at a crucial moment in the selection process.

Ancelotti also hinted at tactical flexibility if doubts remain, suggesting he could deploy central defenders in wide roles to maintain balance.

“The most important thing is the team’s balance,” he said. “If you have a winger who pushes forward a lot, you don’t always need a full-back doing the same.”

Even so, Wesley’s rise offers Brazil a natural solution, and one that could yet secure him a place on the biggest stage.

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