Real Madrid Trio Reportedly Have World Cup Places Guaranteed

With 103 days until the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off in Mexico, anticipation is building across the globe, and Real Madrid supporters have extra reason to celebrate. ESPN Brasil reports that three of the club’s Brazilian stars—Eder Militao, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo—have already secured guaranteed spots in Brazil’s final squad, according to sources close to national-team coach Carlo Ancelotti.

The trio have spent the past four seasons working under Ancelotti at club level, a familiarity that now appears set to translate onto the international stage. All three featured prominently in Brazil’s most recent friendly, a 2-0 victory over Senegal in November, underlining their importance to the Italian tactician’s plans. Militao lined up at right-back, while Vinicius and Rodrygo rotated between the left flank and the central playmaker role, showcasing the tactical versatility Ancelotti values.

The report lists the Madrid players among an elite group of 16 whose tickets to the tournament are effectively punched. Alongside Militao, Vinicius, and Rodrygo, Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, Arsenal defender Gabriel, PSG captain Marquinhos, and veteran midfielder Casemiro—another former Real Madrid stalwart—are also assured of their places. The list further includes Flamengo full-back Alex Sandro, Zenit’s Douglas Santos, Chelsea trio Andrey Santos, Estevao, and Joao Pedro, Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes, Flamengo playmaker Lucas Paqueta, Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli, Manchester United striker Matheus Cunha, and Barcelona winger Raphinha.

While the inclusion of the Madrid trio is viewed as a natural outcome of both form and familiarity, the same certainty has sparked debate elsewhere. Zenit winger Luis Henrique is also said to have a guaranteed berth, a decision that could leave promising striker Endrick—currently on loan at Lyon—fighting for a late call-up. Endrick, who has been operating primarily on the right wing for his loan club, may still force his way in if he impresses during Brazil’s upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia at the end of March.

For now, though, the focus inside the Real Madrid camp is clear: Militao, Vinicius, and Rodrygo can shift their full attention to delivering silverware for their club, safe in the knowledge that their World Cup seats are already reserved.