Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has left out forward Vinicius Junior from the squad for their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia.
The five-time world champions will face Chile on September 5 before hosting Bolivia on September 10.
Vinicius is already suspended for the first match against Chile, and Ancelotti has opted against calling him up for the Bolivia tie as well. The coach believes it is better for the Real Madrid winger to rest in Spain rather than travel for a single fixture.
Brazil currently sit third in the CONMEBOL qualifying standings, behind leaders Argentina and second-placed Ecuador.
The Seleção head into September’s fixtures after a narrow 1-0 win over Paraguay in June. Ancelotti’s men will be aiming to collect maximum points to strengthen their chances of securing an automatic World Cup ticket.
