Tottenham striker Richarlison did not play a single minute for Brazil in this international break. That happened for the first time under manager Carlo Ancelotti.
He sat out both games against Senegal and Tunisia, despite being one of only two players – alongside Bruno Guimarães – who had featured in all six previous matches of the Italian’s tenure.
This absence adds weight to a discussion already taking place in Brazil. According to UOL, Ancelotti is still searching for what he calls a “different striker”, someone who can act as a true reference in the box.
Richarlison has historically filled that role, but his current form has weakened his claim. He’s scored only four goals for Spurs this season and has not found the net for Brazil since the 2022 World Cup.
His club form has not helped either, with limited minutes and inconsistent performances at Tottenham.
Ancelotti made it clear before the Tunisia match that the squad lacks a pure number nine. He explained that Brazil may need a forward capable of holding play, acting as a pivot and providing a stronger presence in the penalty area.
“We might need a reference as a striker in some games, in some moments. We have time to assess this and try to find one in the next six months,” he said.
The manager started all four of his attackers – Rodrygo, Estêvão, Vinicius Junior and Matheus Cunha – but none fits the profile he is after. Richarlison was once the default option for that task, yet the current scenario suggests the competition is open.
The next steps remain unclear, but the Tottenham forward now faces fresh pressure at both club and national-team level to regain his place.