Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti identifies new position for Vinicius Jr

Vinicius is set for a key role in the national team.

Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. has become a major player in Brazil’s assault ever since injuries have consistently sidelined Neymar.

Naturally, he has benefited from Carlo Ancelotti’s appointment as head coach, as he played for Real Madrid under the Italian manager for many years. Vinicius Jr. has scored two goals for the world champions in six games since Ancelotti took over.

Vinicius Jr. is set for a new position on the national team

Carlo Ancelotti is happy with the left winger’s display, but after outlining the possible advantages to the Real Madrid star, who is having trouble at the club level, he planned a new role for the 25-year-old.

Speaking to PLACAR, the Brazil boss said: “[I see him] as a winger or as a central striker. Vinícius has the quality to score many goals. I’ve spoken to him: Look, when you’re playing as a winger, to score goals you have to do three or four dribbles. Touch the ball seven or eight times. And in the centre, just one well-timed movement is enough to score a goal. He understood it, he likes playing in that position.”

“We can take advantage of a player who can help a lot as a winger, not as a forward in the area as I’m not stupid because he is not a reference point inside the box. But to attack the area with space, he is very, very, dangerous.”

Carlo Ancelotti has also recommended that Neymar play a different role. It would fit his body and enable the 33-year-old winger to avoid the ailments that have affected the Brazilian icon during his career. The Brazil coach continues to experiment with new tactics and roles for the national team players.

Brazil will play international friendlies in England and France on November 15 and 18, respectively, against African powerhouses Senegal and Tunisia, following a dismal loss to Japan at the end of their Asia tour.

The Selecao will only play two more practice games in March of next year before travelling to North America for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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