Ancelotti: Vinicius and Rodrigo can coexist; Satisfied with Fabinho's conditon

Brazil will play a friendly match against Senegal. Before the game, Ancelotti attended a press conference.

Why was Militão assigned to play right-back?

Militão's style is different from that of right-backs like Wesley, and I will ask him to demonstrate different abilities and playing styles. This is an option we have prepared for the World Cup, which can enhance the stability of the backline. We conceded 3 goals in the previous match against Japan, and we analyzed the mistakes, hoping to improve in this regard and play well in this game. 

How do you view the role of the double defensive midfielder combination?

They are very important, and their previous performances have been excellent. I have full confidence in them. We need to find players suitable for this position, so Fabinho has been selected this time. I am very satisfied with his training condition. Let's see if he can get playing time against Senegal or next Tuesday.

What are the plans for the match against Tunisia?

I haven't yet decided on the specific arrangements for the match against Tunisia. For now, I'll focus on the game against Senegal, which is an important battle. Senegalese players have strong individual abilities, well-organized offense and defense, and many experienced players. When facing Tunisia, we will field our best lineup, continue to improve through teamwork, and prepare well for the World Cup. So far, I'm very satisfied with the team's performance. The mistakes we make now are to accumulate experience for the World Cup, as mistakes in the World Cup will directly lead to elimination. 

Can Vinícius and Rodrigo start together? 

Of course, they are used to playing football together, often paired up at Real Madrid, and in good physical condition with high concentration, which can greatly assist the national team.

How to evaluate the atmosphere of the national team?

I am very satisfied with the players in the team. Everyone has a harmonious relationship, creating a pure team environment, which is crucial for our work and also of great significance for our World Cup journey. Such an atmosphere enables everyone to perform at their highest level. 

Did your private communication with Vinícius involve tactics?

I will communicate with all the players to understand their tactical ideas. It is very important that we know how the players feel and what they should do. Throughout my coaching career, many players have proposed tactical suggestions to make themselves more comfortable on the pitch. I never place players where I want them to be, but where they feel at ease. My communication with Vinicius does not involve tactics, but rather personal topics. 

What tactical formation will be used against Senegal?

We will continue to use the tactical system we employed against South Korea. I believe that every time the team uses a double defensive midfielder setup, it performs very well. This is the best formation in my mind, with strong players in the frontcourt, and we will not rule out a more solid defensive deployment either.

Will there be any lineup surprises in the World Cup? 

There are still six months until the World Cup, and a lot can happen, such as injuries and a decline in players' form. My thinking on the final 26-man roster is already fairly clear, but there is still competition for some positions, and the coaching staff will observe until the last moment. The overall level of the players is very high, and selecting the final 26-man roster will be extremely difficult. 

How to shield the team from external interference?

External voices can be both good and bad, but I trust the professionalism and personal qualities of the players, which are especially important during the World Cup. I've noticed that the players in the team don't look at their phones much, have good relationships with each other, and are very in sync. I like this kind of atmosphere. So far, phones have not appeared in the locker room or the dining room, which is very good.

How to view the strength of African teams?

We need to give players the opportunity to experience this different style of football. Football is globalized, but each team has its own characteristics. Asian teams are different from Senegal and Tunisia. It is important to understand the characteristics of teams from around the world. These teams are very strong and may bring surprises in the World Cup, just like Morocco in the previous World Cup. Senegal has highly skilled players with outstanding strength. I was very lucky to have coached Koulibaly, who is one of the best center-backs I've ever worked with.