Back for Brazil? Ancelotti does not rule out Thiago Silva’s return for the World Cup

Carlo Ancelotti has refused to rule out a fairytale return to the Brazil national team for veteran defender Thiago Silva ahead of the next World Cup. Although the centre-back is now 41, the Italian tactician believes the quality and experience far exceeds the numbers on a passport. Age is just a number for Ancelotti Thiago Silva has not played for the Selecao since the heartbreaking quarter-final elimination against Croatia at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. However, with the upcoming world tournament approaching, Ancelotti has sparked speculation that the veteran could be ready for one last dance on the international stage. The former Real Madrid manager was full of praise for the defender, who joined Porto in January and has played nine times for the Portuguese giants. Speaking to French media outlet L’Equipe, Ancelotti insisted he does not discriminate against older players if they are still performing at the highest level. He used his current midfield maestro at the Bernabeu as a prime example of longevity in the modern game. Modric and Maldini’s plans Ancelotti is no stranger to managing legendary figures who defy the aging process. Having coached some of the biggest names in football history, the Italian spoke of the icons he worked with at AC Milan and Real Madrid to justify a possible recall of the former Chelsea and PSG star. He firmly believes that talent has no expiration date if the player maintains his fitness. The Brazilian coach clearly explained his philosophy: “I never look at the date of birth on the passport. All Brazilian players can aspire to be on the roster for the World Cup. It doesn’t matter if he is 41. If he deserves to be there, he will be there. Age is not a problem. See Paolo Maldini, who was almost 39 when he won the Champions League final, or Luka Modric, who is 40 today.” A future on the touchline Beyond his current abilities on the pitch, Ancelotti also spoke about Thiago Silva’s intellectual approach to the game. The defender has already started planning for life after his playing career, previously speaking to ESPN about studying to earn coaching badges. It is a transition that his former Milan manager believes will be seamless given Silva’s tactical discipline and work ethic. Ancelotti was quick to tip the 41-year-old for success in the dugout once he finally decided to hang up his boots. “Thiago will be a great coach, I have no doubt about it. He has experience, he has worked with some really brilliant coaches during his career, and I’m not talking about myself,” he said with a smile. “And he works very hard… I’m very happy to know that I managed to inspire some of them…” The final push for World Cup glory As Brazil look to end their long wait for a sixth world title, the inclusion of a seasoned veteran like Silva could provide the leadership and composure required in knockout football. While the team has seen an influx of young talent recently, Ancelotti admitted that the emergence of new players only “increases doubt” when it comes to finalizing a selection, leaving the door wide open for experience. If Silva succeeds, he would become one of the oldest players to ever appear at a World Cup. For now, the defender remains a viable option in Ancelotti’s eyes, proving that as long as performance levels remain high, the dream of representing the yellows and greens of Brazil remains alive, regardless of age.