Carlo Ancelotti took charge of his first Brazil game this week and it ended in a 0-0 draw against Ecuador in the World Cup qualifiers.
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro started the clash in the heart of midfield, earning a place back in the Brazil squad working under his previous Real Madrid manager.
Matheus Cunha and Antony started the game on the bench, and the contest was close with not many chances afforded to either team.
United’s latest signing Cunha came on after 64 minutes but failed to have a significant impact. Despite his strong form at Real Betis, Antony was not introduced for this game.
Brazil were unable to find the opening and currently sit fourth in their World Cup qualification group. Their next game comes next week against Paraguay.
What Ancelotti told Cunha and Brazil teammates
After the game, the message from Ancelotti to Cunha, Casemiro and the entire Brazil team was revealed by Tottenham Hotspur forward Richarlison.
The 28-year-old told ESPN Brasil: “He (Ancelotti) said that it wasn’t the result we wanted, but that we fought and struggled. That’s what was missing in the past, one or two years ago.
“We fought on the pitch and did our best. It will be better in Itaquera, the Paraguayan team plays more openly. We need to prepare well to get there in good shape.”
Ancelotti also criticised the pitch on the night but didn’t want to use that as an excuse as he explained the difficulties Brazil had in attack across the game.
“There was a lack of play in attack,” the manager said. “Ecuador defended very well, it wasn’t so easy to find space between the lines. As I said, I don’t want to make excuses here, but the pitch wasn’t so easy to play on.”
Cunha will make United move official soon
The United trio of Cunha, Antony and Casemiro will all play for the national side next Wednesday and then will finally be getting a few weeks of holiday before pre-season. Cunha and Antony will be hoping for the chance to start in Ancelotti’s first home game.
Before his holiday, Cunha will actually head to Carrington and Old Trafford to make his switch to the club official. United fans are still waiting for images of him in the kit.
Read More: Viktor Gyökeres produces Man Utd U-turn after private conversation with Ruben Amorim revealed
With the announcement for the new home kit coming next Thursday, it could also be the first time the Brazilian international is spotted in Red.
He will then be eagerly awaiting the start of pre-season, and United will hope to have a couple more signings over the line by that point in time.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.