Ancelotti explains why he benched Endrick in the 2026 World Cup match against Morocco

Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti has addressed questions about his decision to leave Real Madrid star Endrick on the bench during the nation’s FIFA World Cup opener against Morocco.

Ancelotti kept Endrick out for the entire match, which ended in a 1‑1 draw at MetLife Stadium.

The Italian selected Brentford striker Igor Thiago to spearhead Brazil’s attack against the North Africans.

Goals were scored by Ismael Saibari and Vinícius Junior.

When asked why he benched Endrick, who had a strong season on loan at Lyon, Ancelotti replied via Fabrizio Romano: “I am not going to comment on individual players. I am here to talk about the team.”

Endrick had recorded 12 goal contributions in 16 Ligue 1 appearances for Lyon.

The 19‑year‑old now looks forward to earning playing time when Brazil face Haiti in their next match next weekend.