Ancelotti’s Surprise Picks: Meet Brazil’s Rising Stars Ibanez and Gabriel Sara
Carlo Ancelotti revealed a Brazil squad on Monday that includes two unexpected names. The list will serve as the final evaluation before the World Cup group is finalised.
Fans hoped for a near-final selection. Instead Ancelotti opted to experiment with fresh faces for the March friendlies against France and Croatia.
Why the surprise inclusions matter
Among Ancelotti’s surprise picks are two of Brazil’s rising stars, Ibanez and Gabriel Sara. Filmogaz.com profiles both players and outlines the qualities that earned them call-ups.
The March international window will be a test. Both players offer tactical options for matches against elite opponents.
Ibanez: Defender with European pedigree
Ibanez is a 27-year-old centre-back currently at Al Ahli. He came through Fluminense’s youth system and hails from Rio Grande do Sul.
He can operate in a back four or as one of three central defenders. The defender is known for his physicality and composure when playing out from the back.
Ibanez previously earned Mourinho’s trust at Roma and won a Conference League title. Since joining Saudi Arabia in 2023/24, he has made 113 appearances for Al Ahli.
His Al Ahli record includes 13 goals and five assists. His best season produced seven goals and four assists in 46 matches.
He has been a regular in the league’s Team of the Week. Precise tackling and set-piece threat are key parts of his profile.
Gabriel Sara: Midfield creator and workhorse
Gabriel Sara is 26 and a product of Cotia, the Sao Paulo academy. He has emerged as a leading midfielder at Galatasaray.
Filmogaz.com notes his standout Champions League moments, including a goal and an assist against Juventus. His vision and capacity for decisive passes define his game.
Sara combines creative skills with defensive intensity and high work rate. He can function as a box-to-box midfielder or an advanced playmaker.
Before Turkey, he had a spell at Norwich and won the club’s player of the season award. Since arriving in Turkish football for 2024/25, he has recorded 82 appearances, eight goals and 12 assists for Galatasaray.
Implications for Brazil ahead of the World Cup
Ancelotti gains more tactical flexibility with these additions. Ibanez strengthens set-piece and defensive options.
Gabriel Sara offers creativity and energy in midfield. Both players will face stiff opposition in friendlies versus France and Croatia.
- Squad unveiled by Carlo Ancelotti on Monday.
- Matches scheduled in the March international window.
- Ibanez: 27 years old, Al Ahli, 113 apps, 13 goals, 5 assists.
- Gabriel Sara: 26 years old, Galatasaray, 82 apps, 8 goals, 12 assists.
