Carlo Ancelotti’s confusing comments will have Andre wondering what more he can do to get into the Brazil side.
Another international break is almost upon us, and it comes at a strange time for Wolves.
Pereira has been sacked by Wolves and a manager hunt is ensuing that could carry into the break.
But that won’t be the number one concern for Andre, who is sure to be disappointed by his omission from the Brazil squad. His manager’s justification for the selections certainly won’t help.
Confusion as Carlo Ancelotti omits Andre from Brazil squad
After this weekend’s action, players will depart for international duty for the last time before AFCON gets underway in December.
One man who will be staying at Molineux is Andre, having missed out on a call-up for Brazil.
Ancelotti sent a message to Andre during the last set of international fixtures, hinting that he will be finalising his squad for the World Cup sooner rather than later. That makes his omission hurt that bit more, but it’s the explanation of his choice that will have Andre scratching his head.
Speaking to GE, Ancelotti revealed: “I want to find a profile that fits Casemiro’s characteristics. We have very good midfielders with different defensive profiles compared to Casemiro.
“Fabinho has that characteristic, the structure and knowledge of the position. And also the experience. He’s a player who is playing and has played at a very high level in Europe.”
Ancelotti’s justification for including Fabinho — formerly of Liverpool and now playing in Saudi — is that he can offer similar strengths to Casemiro in the middle of the park. Andre showcases the same qualities in a much more competitive league, yet, he hasn’t been given a sniff of opportunity from the Italian.
Wolves struggles hurting World Cup prospects
Back in October, Ancelotti said he wanted to look at Joao Gomes and Andre, but gave them no minutes to show their quality. This time around, neither have been picked.
Obviously, Wolves’ form hasn’t helped, but if Ancelotti has been watching the games he will have seen that the midfield duo are not the problem.
Wolves have more international players than ever, but more and more of them may suffer these same consequences if improvements aren’t made. Especially in a year building up to the biggest competition in football, form is everything.
A disappointing development but hopefully not the end of Gomes and Andre’s World Cup prospects.