Rodrygo backs Ancelotti’s Brazil plan before Japan test

Rodrygo’s central message is that Carlo Ancelotti will be ready for Brazil’s match against Japan. The forward says Ancelotti’s choices may surprise outsiders, but inside the squad they are built on preparation, tactical understanding and personal trust.

Writing from his own experience, Rodrygo points to Real Madrid’s 2022 Champions League comeback against Manchester City as an example of how a coach can shape a player’s career in decisive moments. He recalls being sent on as a substitute before scoring twice late on, helping Madrid force extra time on their way to the final.

The piece is also a broader reflection on mentorship. Rodrygo describes Ancelotti as a father-like presence and links that influence to other coaches who helped him develop, from early street football in Osasco to Santos, Brazil and Real Madrid.

For editors, the strongest angle is not a tactical preview of Brazil v Japan, but Rodrygo’s view of leadership: he presents elite coaching as a mix of football knowledge, private conversations and the ability to understand players as people.