EXCLUSIVE: Denilson places faith in seasoned Ancelotti to take Brazil to World Cup honours

Brazil, winners on five occasions, are heading into a World Cup with a distinct atmosphere, no longer seen as the overwhelming favourites they once were, yet still regarded as a potential challenger.

Expectations are still sky-high, and following Alexandre Pato's exclusive remarks, Denilson also wished to offer his perspective to Flashscore regarding the new chapter under Carlo Ancelotti.

The ex-Selecao midfielder views the squad with optimism and anticipates a strong start from Brazil's first match against Morocco, a crucial game to establish momentum for the competition.

Former Sao Paulo and Real Betis star Denilson said that the country is glad to have Ancelotti: "Brazil is delighted to have Ancelotti on board. He has restored a great deal of respect and prestige to the Brazilian national team, which had somewhat lost that reputation for a time."

Ancelotti claimed numerous titles with Real Madrid prior to taking up the Brazil job in May 2025. Denilson considers the vast experience of the three-time UEFA Champions League victor to be a major advantage for the side.

"Carlo Ancelotti's vast knowledge of the game fills us with hope for the World Cup. That said, this is also his first time guiding a national side at a World Cup, and a high-profile one like Brazil no less. I suspect he is equally keen to embark on this journey."

"What matters most is the expertise he brings and the renewed respect he has given the Selecao. We trust that, beginning with the opening fixture against Morocco, Brazil will manage to get a victory."

'No room for slip-ups'

Brazil encountered unexpected difficulties during the South American qualifiers, ending nine points adrift of table-toppers Argentina after suffering six defeats in 18 matches. For Denilson, the Selecao's qualifying troubles are now irrelevant.

"Our route to the World Cup was far from straightforward. However, everything achieved so far is now in the past. We must focus on what lies ahead. I think Ancelotti already knows the side he intends to field for the start of this World Cup. This tournament is the biggest there is, yet it runs for just over a month, meaning there is no space for errors."

A strong opening to the competition could set Brazil on the right path, with 7th-placed Morocco appearing the toughest group opponent based on rankings.

"I hope Brazil begin well against Morocco and can sustain that standard throughout the competition," remarked Denilson, a World Cup winner in 2002.

"On a mental level, the World Cup provides you with extraordinary feelings as a footballer," he went on.

"Millions of players dream of and pursue the opportunity to take part in a World Cup. That is why I hope that those featuring in the 2026 World Cup will genuinely immerse themselves in the atmosphere, become emotional, play the game with delight and enjoy themselves on the field, because the World Cup is a one-of-a-kind event," Denilson stated, highlighting the significance of this tournament.

"Look at the influence it generates: right now, here in the United States, journalists from every corner of the globe are present to report on this remarkable occasion."