Ibanez keeps cards close as Brazil weighs defensive options ahead of FIFA WC
New York, June 10
Five-time world champions Brazil begin their World Cup campaign against Morocco on Saturday, but there remains considerable uncertainty over how head coach Carlo Ancelotti will address the defensive concerns facing his side.
Ironically, for a nation long celebrated for its attacking brilliance, Brazil's backline emerged as the main talking point during Tuesday's press conference. With questions lingering over personnel and balance in defence, Ancelotti has limited options.
Potential replacements Roger Ibanez and Danilo have not featured regularly in the role under consideration in recent times, with both players primarily operating as centre-backs or full-backs for their respective clubs.
"We are working hard to get to the game in the strongest shape possible. That is all I can tell you," Ibanez told reporters at Brazil's hotel in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, as per Reuters.
"If I tell you anything else, I would be in trouble," he added when asked whether he expected to start and, if so, whether it would be at right back or in a more central role," he added.
Ancelotti chose not to call up a specialist right-back to replace Wesley, instead handing a recall to Atalanta midfielder Ederson.
According to Ibanez, the Brazil coach has yet to hold specific discussions with either him or Danilo about filling the vacancy, indicating that a final decision on the position is still pending.
The Al-Ahli defender acknowledged that his playing style differs from Wesley's, describing himself as a more defensively minded option. Wesley, by contrast, provides greater attacking impetus and width down the right flank.
Ancelotti could also explore an alternative solution by deploying a midfielder at right-back, further underlining the uncertainty surrounding Brazil's defensive setup ahead of their tournament opener.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Ibanez is a decent player, but playing him out of position at right-back is risky. Brazil have so many attacking riches - they should just outscore everyone. But against a solid Morocco team, that might backfire. Arre yaar, just play Danilo there!
Honestly, this is why I love football - even a powerhouse like Brazil has to scramble for solutions. Ancelotti is a legend, but not calling a specialist right-back is puzzling. In India, we'd say "jugaad" but that doesn't work in World Cup football! 🌟
Respect to Ibanez for keeping his cards close, but this uncertainty is worrying for Brazil fans. Playing a midfielder at right-back sounds like a panic move. Let's hope Ancelotti knows what he's doing - otherwise, it's going to be a short tournament for the Seleção.
Kya baat hai! Brazil with defensive problems - feels like deja vu from 2014. Ancelotti should just trust Ibanez, he's solid for Al-Ahli. But Morocco is no joke, they reached semis last time. India should take notes on how to build a team from basics.
I think Ancelotti is overthinking this. Just play your best defenders, even if they're not specialists. Brazil's attack can win games on its own. The real question is why they didn't prepare better during qualifiers. Criticism warranted here. 🤔
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