With the FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada drawing closer, fans across the globe are eagerly anticipating the tournament. On Monday (May 11), Carlo Ancelotti submitted the Brazilian national team’s preliminary squad to FIFA, containing up to 55 players. However, one notable absence has stirred frustration among European supporters.
Reports indicate that Savinho, the Manchester City winger, is not among the 55 names selected by Ancelotti. Despite Estevão also being left out, Savinho finds himself trailing Rayan and Luiz Henrique in the battle for the right-wing position. Many English fans, who have admired Savinho’s talent since his days at Atlético Mineiro, have voiced their disappointment over his omission.
Here are some translated comments from European fans:
– “I’m really disappointed with Ancelotti. Man, to be honest, Savinho is better than some players on that list.”
– “There are not 54 Brazilian players better than Savinho.”
– “You absolutely cannot name 55 players better than Savinho.”
– “Pep Guardiola ruined his career, seriously.”
The preliminary squad is a standard step before finalizing the 26-man roster for the World Cup, with potential replacements for injured players. Traditionally, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) keeps the preliminary list confidential. The only recent public disclosure occurred in February 2025, when former coach Dorival Júnior released a preliminary list for World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina.
Despite the secrecy, Ancelotti’s decision has sparked debate, with Savinho’s absence especially drawing criticism from European football enthusiasts who believe the young winger deserved a spot.
