Ibañez loses position in Brazil's debut and says: "I feel ready"

Brazil is preparing for its debut in the 2026 World Cup, which will take place next Saturday (13), at 7pm (Brasília time), against Morocco. Ibañez, new to the friendly against Egypt, did not confirm which position he will play in the first round.

"Regardless of the position, I feel ready. Whether it's as a full-back, as a defender, wherever I am, I'll be ready to represent my country. He (Carlo Ancelotti) is very direct and straightforward in what he wants within the group. That's very important for us", said the 27-year-old player.

Ibañez started as a starter in the match against the Egyptian team, playing as a defender alongside captain Marquinhos. Against Panama, he entered the duel at half-time as a right-back, performing confidently in both cases.

With Wesley's cut, due to a thigh injury, the defender from Rio Grande do Sul appears as one of the favorites to take over the starting role on the side, performing a role similar to that of Éder Militão, also injured.

Ibañez competes for the starting spot with Danilo, a Flamengo athlete who is a full-back by birth. Midfielder Fabinho, currently at Al-Ittihad, is another who can play on the defensive side.

"With Danilo, day to day life is always very good. He clarifies many doubts that we have within the group, whether as a full-back or as a defender, because he also performs both roles. So, that helps a lot", he added.

Marquinhos cites pain from eliminations as fuel for 2026

Source: CNN