According to Brazilian media outlet *Globo Esporte*, veteran defender Thiago Silva has been included in Brazil’s 55-man preliminary squad submitted to FIFA for the World Cup. The 41-year-old, currently playing for Porto, has earned a spot back in Carlo Ancelotti’s consideration thanks to his consistent performances this season.
Silva has not represented Brazil since the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. However, his stellar displays at the heart of Porto’s defense helped the club secure the Portuguese league title, sparking renewed debate over a potential national team return.
Ancelotti and Silva share a long history, having worked together at both AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain. The Italian coach is well aware of Silva’s qualities and experience.
In a previous interview, Silva stated that he would be ready to accept a call-up if needed, as long as his physical condition allows.
On May 2, Porto clinched their 31st Portuguese top-flight title with a 1-0 win over Avicca. Back in March, Silva had already discussed the possibility of playing in the World Cup.
“Ancelotti and his coaching staff know who Thiago Silva is,” he said. “I don’t need to fight for a call-up, and I don’t like talking about it all the time. If I’m not called, I won’t go; if I can play in the World Cup, I’ll go. As long as I do my job and stay in good shape, I still think I can help. The World Cup is a very short tournament.”
“I feel good now. If Ancelotti wants me, Thiago Silva is ready. If not, that’s fine too.”
Meanwhile, goalkeeper John Victor was included in Brazil’s squad for two international breaks last year, though both occasions were as a replacement. In October, he replaced the injured Ederson for friendlies against South Korea and Japan. In November, after Ugo Souza withdrew due to injury, John joined the squad for matches against Senegal and Tunisia.
However, in the 2025/26 season, John has made only nine appearances for Nottingham Forest, and has not played since a 3-1 win over Aston Villa in January.
FIFA regulations require each national team to submit a 55-man preliminary squad. All 55 players will be officially registered in the World Cup squad pool, but only 26 can make the final list. Teams can make adjustments to the squad until June 11, the day before the World Cup begins.
After the tournament starts, replacements are only allowed in case of injury with a medical certificate, and only within 24 hours before the team’s first match. Goalkeepers, however, can be replaced due to injury under special circumstances.
Brazil’s final 26-man World Cup squad will be announced on Monday (May 18) at 5 PM at the Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro.
Players will gather at the Granja Comary training base in Teresópolis on May 27, except those involved in the Champions League final, which this year features Paris Saint-Germain against Arsenal.
Brazil will play their World Cup opener against Morocco on June 13 in New Jersey. Before that, they have two warm-up matches:
– May 31: vs. Panama at Maracanã Stadium
– June 6: vs. Egypt in Cleveland