EXCLUSIVE: Ederson discusses Brazil's World Cup prospects and contrasts between Pep and Ancelotti

"Players must be the first to believe; if they do not, it is pointless," he remarked.

Now featuring for Fenerbahce, Ederson noted that supporters in Turkish football evoke memories of those at Corinthians and Vasco, drew comparisons between the approaches of Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola, and shared key guidance he got from ex-goalkeeper Julio Cesar early in his career.

This chat with Ederson occurred on Sunday, March 29th, from the Brazil squad's base in Florida, ahead of their second friendly match against Croatia during the international break. Read the complete discussion here.

What thoughts are on your mind as the World Cup draws near?

"Calm. Just two months remain, and plenty remains to accomplish in our preparation. Yet, we have started incorporating it in sessions, aiming to gel fast, to take in what the manager requires of us, correct?

"Our preparation began later than ideal. Thus, I expect that in the actual tournament, we will apply what we have drilled and rehearsed."

What convinces you that Brazil can claim the World Cup?

"All of it, really. We possess talent and capability. Naturally, more effort is needed to integrate the manager's vision, to perform strongly and deliver fine football. Yet, the squad must lead in believing, as without that belief from players, it is hopeless."

This marks your third World Cup involvement. How have you evolved since your earlier ones?

"Indeed, much has shifted. I am more seasoned and knowledgeable now. Thus, perspectives change. Of course, this phase brings added nerves to the group.

"The players commit fully, yet they fear major injuries that could sideline them from the tournament, so it involves maximum dedication in sessions and fixtures, plus recovery work, additional drills outside routine, all crucial."

With nearly 50 days united in the World Cup base, how vital is understanding each teammate's personality?

"Simple enough. I am familiar with nearly all here. Newcomers get drawn in by us, to ease their nerves and make them comfortable.

"We engage in activities with them, all sorts, to integrate them swiftly, to make it feel less like a debut, to relax them, aiding better showings in practice and thus on the pitch."

Igor Thiago vies for the Premier League golden boot alongside your ex-colleague Haaland. Rayan recently joined Bournemouth. How much does the English top flight benefit talents like these?

"It contributes immensely, given the Premier League's high intensity. Many youths arrive needing adaptation time, yet Rayan has shone brightly in matches, adjusting rapidly.

"No lengthy settling for him. Igor Thiago has netted plenty too. Both are young, though Igor seems mature beyond his years, still a youngster. They hold promising paths ahead, ones the national side will surely tap into."

You have collaborated with Guardiola and Ancelotti. How does daily interaction with them differ? Are their styles markedly distinct?

"Certainly, their traits vary. Ancelotti remains more laid-back, while Guardiola pushes harder, but both rank among top managers, and I feel lucky to have learned from them."

Is Ancelotti more conversational, maybe?

"Ancelotti chats with all, privately included. That seems standard for managers. Plus, with his stature, he shares vast knowledge, which benefits us greatly."

Do elements from the Premier League or Pep's methods influence your national team routine? Footwork, say. Do you retain some, or is it specific to Manchester City?

"No, it hinges on the situation and Ancelotti's preferred style. Should he need my foot skills, I will deliver.

"Though in the recent outing, I faltered thrice with distribution, such occurs in the game. Normal. Anything from my City days applicable to the national setup, I will utilise."

Do you sense your breakthrough moment nearing with Brazil?

"Unclear. I approach each day as if my chance arrives next. Thus, I prepare consistently, play or not, since opportunities arise unexpectedly, demanding readiness."

How is life at Fenerbahce? Spoken to Taffarel about Turkish football and its rivalries?

"Yes, the football pulses with energy there. Turkey proves a fine nation, its populace passionate about sports beyond just the beautiful game. It echoes Brazil somewhat, like Corinthians supporters, Vasco, Flamengo, those die-hards who cheer non-stop for full time.

"Especially like Corinthians and Vasco crowds, so devoted, urging the side, sharing the pain. Quite unlike England, where engagement feels more reserved."

In Brazil, blending football fervour with logic proves challenging, right?

"True, similar in Turkey. Emotions often drive discussions, comments, messages, yet that is typical supporter behaviour. They crave victory always, see?

"They lack the player's view, who exerts maximum yet may draw or fall short; they struggle to separate effort from outcome."

Does this apply to national team followers too?

"Universal. Supporters demand wins and flair, though reality varies. Players grasp this, but most fans do not."

How goes your season's end in Turkey? Premier League title prediction?

"Progressing nicely there. Second place, yet all undecided. We push to the final day, holding faith. Premier League stays Manchester City's domain, undoubtedly. Their closing phase outpaces others, no question."

With two pre-World Cup friendlies plus three group games, will the side accelerate then?

"Definitely. The group unites fully. Extended prep time changes things, unlike March's brief windows of two or three sessions before matches, then repeat.

"Absorbing Ancelotti's concepts proves tougher that way."

Encountered Mikel Arteta in your path? How was sharing insights with him?

"Positive experience. Arteta impresses as sharp and youthful, with huge coaching promise.

"At City, he aided forwards extensively, focusing on finishing in drills. Absent players meant he stepped up, always giving everything."

On joining Benfica, Julio Cesar held the top keeper spot, yes? What lessons did he impart?

"Correct, around ten years back. Perhaps eleven or twelve. Julio shared much, on and off field. He advised on handling earnings wisely, reinvesting, managing finances, as funds flow in and out without proper mindset.

"His input shaped me, teaching sound investments. Gained positives from Julio. He proved pivotal in my growth, pitch and beyond. Remarkable person, aided immensely."

Other figures key to your pro career?

"Did not play alongside, but Rogerio Ceni inspires as my hero. Unacquainted personally, yet his Sao Paulo legacy, commitment over years, trophies won, all captivate.

"Julio stands out too, exceptional keeper I shared two years with, beyond norms. He is a close associate now, so these two, chiefly Julio, given our time together and his fine nature."