The Brazilian national team has made a historic move. Coach Carlo Ancelotti has submitted a 55-man preliminary squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and 41-year-old veteran Thiago Silva is included, sparking widespread discussion in the football world.
This marks the first time the former Seleção captain has been called up since the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Despite being over 40, Silva has maintained exceptional form this season at Porto, playing a key role in leading the team to the Portuguese league title.
If Silva makes the final 26-man squad, he would set a new record, becoming the oldest Brazilian player to appear in a World Cup, surpassing Dani Alves (39 years, 212 days). Silva has already played in four World Cups from 2010 to 2022, winning the Confederations Cup and Copa América with Brazil.
Silva’s return is backed by Ancelotti, who previously coached him at AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain. Ancelotti highly values the defender’s leadership in the dressing room and experience in crucial matches. Silva has expressed his readiness to serve the national team, saying, “Ancelotti knows me well. I’m ready whenever the team needs me.”
According to the plan, Brazil will confirm the final 26-man squad on May 18. The team will then assemble in late May for two friendly matches against Panama and Egypt to finalize preparations for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
