Brazil squad for October friendlies: Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo return, Joao Pedro out, Igor Jesus in 

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has announced the 26-man squad for the upcoming friendlies against South Korea and Japan.

Real Madrid attackers Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo have been called up after missing the last international break.

Vinicius was left out because of his one-match suspension, while Rodrygo’s poor form contributed to his exclusion last time.

The former has been on top of his game for Los Blancos this season, bagging three goals and four assists in seven La Liga outings.

Rodrygo is slowly regaining his confidence after struggling in the 2024/25 campaign.

Despite not being a regular starter for Xabi Alonso, the 24-year-old has racked up two assists in two Champions League games.

Rodrygo also thanked Ancelotti for helping him recover from a difficult period at the end of the last season. 

Madrid defender Eder Militao has also received a call-up despite missing the recent Champions League game against Kairat due to a minor ankle injury.

Chelsea attacker Joao Pedro is among the notable absentees, with Ancelotti revealing that he has a minor injury.

Neymar, Raphinha, Marquinhos and Alisson Becker were not included due to injuries. Nottingham Forest striker Igor Jesus has made it to the squad.

La Selecao will face South Korea on October 14 and Japan four days later.

Full Brazil squad

Goalkeepers: Ederson (Fenerbahce), Bento (Al Nassr), Hugo Souza (Corinthians).

Defenders: Carlos Augusto (Inter Milan), Eder Militao (Real Madrid), Caio Henrique (Monaco), Vanderson (Monaco), Douglas Santos (Zenit St Petersburg), Fabricio Bruno (Cruzeiro), Gabriel Magalhaes (Arsenal), Lucas Beraldo (Paris Saint-Germain), Wesley (Roma).

Midfielders: Andre (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United), Joelinton (Newcastle United), Casemiro (Manchester United), Joao Gomes (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Lucas Paqueta (West Ham United).

Forwards: Estevao (Chelsea), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Igor Jesus (Nottingham Forest), Luiz Henrique (Zenit St Petersburg), Matheus Cunha (Manchester United), Richarlison (Tottenham Hotspur), Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid).