Brazil: Two young midfielders tested before 2026

Carlo Ancelotti calls up Martinelli and Breno Bidon for September friendlies to rejuvenate the Seleção's midfield sector.

New Brazilian coach Carlo Ancelotti continues his restructuring ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Martinelli (Fluminense, 24 years old) and Breno Bidon (Corinthians, 21 years old) are among the players called up for friendly matches against Australia and India. Both players operate in the midfield position, an area identified as weak during the last World Cup. Martinelli, a three-time national team stalwart since 2020, has 333 matches with Fluminense. Bidon, the breakout star of Copinha 2024, has already scored in the Copa do Brasil final.