Brazil and Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has praised head coach Carlo Ancelotti for his transformative impact on the five-time world champions, noting that the legendary manager has fostered a more work-focused environment since taking charge.
Speaking ahead of Brazil's World Cup opener against Morocco on June 14 in New Jersey, Alisson reflected on the difficult period before Ancelotti's appointment in May 2025. The Italian became the first foreign manager to lead Brazil to a World Cup qualification, taking over when the team's prospects appeared uncertain.
Alisson on Ancelotti's Influence
Addressing reporters via Goal.com, Alisson said: "It is undeniable that the last period was very difficult for us players. We felt firsthand the difficulties due to several factors. Since Ancelotti's arrival, the environment has been transformed. He carries a strong presence and gives us the tranquillity of an environment focused on work, without controversy."
Brazil is placed in Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland.
Resilience and Leadership
Alisson highlighted Ancelotti's resilience and careful choice of words: "He is resilient, humble, and has intelligence in choosing the right words at the right time. He is a great manager. He has a clear idea of football, which facilitates our style of play. These combinations favour the team. I see his joy and gratitude for being the coach of the Selecao."
The goalkeeper noted that despite winning everything in football, Ancelotti remains enthusiastic: "His position perhaps has more pressure than being the president of the country, in its levels."
Tribute to Taffarel
Alisson also credited his long-time goalkeeping coach and childhood idol, Claudio Taffarel, the 1994 World Cup winner. He recalled a vivid memory from the 1998 semi-final against the Netherlands when Taffarel saved a penalty: "My father played a joke and shoved a cake in his own face. It is a privilege to work with Taffarel, an idol and reference for so many Brazilians. He sustains us in difficult moments and has left a legacy beyond his playing days. I have maintained a high level because of a qualified coach like him."
