Alisson hails Ancelotti impact as Brazil prepare for World Cup opener

• Alisson says Carlo Ancelotti has transformed the atmosphere around Brazil’s national team
• Brazil begin their World Cup campaign against Morocco on Saturday at MetLife Stadium
• The Liverpool goalkeeper is set to play in his third World Cup for the Seleção

Brazil goalkeeper Alisson Becker has credited Carlo Ancelotti with revitalising the national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, saying the Italian’s arrival has brought a renewed sense of calm, focus and belief to the five-time world champions.

Speaking two days before Brazil’s opening Group C match against Morocco at MetLife Stadium, the Liverpool goalkeeper described Ancelotti as “a true winner” whose influence has already been felt throughout the squad after years of frustration and underachievement on the international stage.

“Since Ancelotti’s arrival, the atmosphere has been transformed,” Alisson said. “He has a commanding presence and fosters a sense of calm, an environment focused on the work at hand, free from controversy or other distractions.”

The 33-year-old added that the former Real Madrid, AC Milan and Chelsea boss has quickly earned the respect of the players through his track record of success.

“He’s a true winner; it really shows,” Alisson said. “I think you can see it in his expression and players notice it too. The guy has won everything in football, yet here he is with the Brazilian national team, full of joy and enthusiasm.”

Brazil head into the tournament among the favourites to lift the trophy, but Alisson insisted reputation alone guarantees nothing on football’s biggest stage.

“Being the favourite doesn’t guarantee anything for anyone,” he said. “It doesn’t guarantee that a team will become champion. Sometimes it actually brings added weight, an even greater responsibility like the weight of the jersey. We know it’s a huge responsibility.”

Alisson is preparing for his third World Cup appearance, having previously represented Brazil at the 2018 and 2022 tournaments. The goalkeeper is set to join an exclusive group of Brazilian greats, with only Taffarel and Gilmar previously serving as Brazil’s first-choice goalkeeper at three World Cups.

“It would be an honour to join the ranks of the great names in the history of the Brazilian national team,” Alisson said. “It is a privilege for me to participate and compete in another World Cup.”

Both Taffarel and Gilmar went on to win the World Cup with Brazil, a feat Alisson will hope to emulate as the Seleção chase a first global title since 2002.

Brazil open their World Cup campaign against Morocco on Saturday before facing Haiti in Philadelphia six days later. Their final Group C fixture comes against Scotland in Miami on June 24 as Ancelotti’s side look to make a strong start in their bid for a sixth World Cup crown.

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Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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