Carlo Ancelotti may still be learning Portuguese, but the Italian coach is growing increasingly comfortable in his role as Brazil manager as he gears up to field an experimental defensive lineup against Senegal in a friendly at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

Nearly six months into his tenure, the former Real Madrid boss has adjusted to the different rhythm of international football, trading daily club training sessions for periodic work as he builds toward the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the US.

Brazil’s 3-2 defeat to Japan last month served as a wake-up call for Ancelotti. Prior to that match, his side had conceded just one goal in his first five games. The collapse after leading 2-0 at halftime highlighted the need for defensive improvements.

“The defence was a key part in Brazil’s last World Cup victories,” Ancelotti said, referencing the 1994 and 2002 tournaments.
“A team with fantastic individuality, who enjoyed the game but knew how not to get exposed… I remember 1994, a team with two defensive midfielders, very tight at the back, and with Bebeto and Romario up front to make the difference. That’s what I think for the World Cup. A solid defence helps quality players make the difference.”

Real Madrid centre-back Éder Militão is set to start at right-back against Senegal as Ancelotti experiments with solutions to strengthen the full-back positions.

“Militão has a different profile from other right-backs. I’m going to ask for something different in terms of quality and style of play,” Ancelotti explained.
“It’s an option we can use in the World Cup to give the team more solidity at the back. We conceded three goals against Japan, we’ve assessed our mistakes, and we’ll try to improve in that area to play a good game.”

Adjusting to international management has required patience from a coach used to daily interactions with his players.

“For me, it’s a good experience. When I arrived, it was to prepare for the two World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay, and then I had some adjustments to make,” he said, recalling the 1-0 win over Paraguay that secured Brazil’s World Cup spot.
“I’m not used to working from time to time. I used to work every day, and now it’s different. Scouting players was the hardest part to adapt to, but I’m enjoying it.”

Despite the challenges, Ancelotti is thriving in his new environment in Rio de Janeiro.
“It’s very good for me. It’s a different job and one of observation, which has been very rewarding. I have the opportunity to work in a great environment and get to know another country. Brazil is fantastic and the reception has been spectacular.”

Saturday’s friendly also offers a chance to improve Brazil’s record against Senegal, one of only two teams they have never beaten, alongside Norway. The Selecao drew in 2019 and lost in 2023, giving Ancelotti’s side a chance to settle unfinished business in his seventh game in charge.