Vinicius Jr, Raphinha coming to India: Brazil announce 26-man squad for India friendly
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has named a star-studded 26-man squad for the upcoming international friendly against India on October 3. Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr and Barcelona winger Raphinha are among the headline names set to travel to India for the historic clash against the Blue Tigers.
The Brazilian squad is packed with some of the biggest names in world football. Alongside Vinicius and Raphinha, Marquinhos, Bruno Guimaraes, Douglas Luiz, Endrick, Estevao and Joao Pedro have also been included by Ancelotti.
However, there are a few notable absentees from the squad. Goalkeeping duo Alisson and Ederson have not been included, while Neymar will also miss out after announcing that his time with the national team had come to an end following the recently concluded FIFA World Cup 2026.
Veteran midfielder Casemiro, one of the most decorated midfielders of his generation, has also not been picked for the friendly.
Ancelotti has also injected some young blood into the defensive unit, with Jair Cunha and Vitor Reis earning call-ups. The Nottingham Forest and Manchester City youngsters are among the fresh faces in the squad as Brazil continue to build towards the future.
VINICIUS, RAPHINHA SET FOR INDIA TRIP
The biggest attraction for Indian football fans will undoubtedly be the arrival of Vinicius Jr and Raphinha. Two of the most recognisable stars in world football today, the Real Madrid and Barcelona forwards are expected to headline Brazil’s visit to India.
Kolkata is all set to host Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil in a historic international friendly against the Blue Tigers at the Salt Lake Stadium on October 3. The prospect of seeing Vinicius and Raphinha take the field in India is expected to make the match one of the biggest international football events ever hosted in the country in recent times.
Brazil’s visit will offer the Indian team a rare opportunity to test themselves against one of world football’s most successful nations, while fans will get the chance to watch some of the game’s biggest stars in action.
BRAZIL’S SQUAD FOR INDIA FRIENDLY
Goalkeepers: Hugo Souza, Pedro Morisco, Otavio
Defenders: Arthur Dias, Douglas Santos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jair Cunha, Marquinhos, Matheuzinho, Mauro Jr, Vitor Reis, Wesley
Midfielders: Andrey Santos, Breno, Bruno Guimares, Danilo, Douglas Luiz, Gabriel Bontempo,
Attackers: Endrick, Estevao, Joao Pedro, Pedro, Raphinha, Rayan, Samuel Lino, Vinicus Jr
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