According to a report by GOAL on Sunday November 1, 2026, Brazil defender Douglas Santos has warned that no player can afford to take their place in the national team for granted, despite receiving backing from head coach Carlo Ancelotti.

The 32-year-old Zenit St Petersburg left-back was included in Brazil's squad for the November international fixtures as Ancelotti continues to shape his team ahead of future competitions.

Although Santos is reportedly viewed by the Italian manager as an important member of the squad, the defender insists that he must continue working hard to retain his position.

Speaking in an interview with Lance, Santos said competition for places was a positive thing because it encouraged players to improve their performances.

"Competition is part of a national team that has many quality players. I view this in a positive way because it motivates us to evolve and always seek our best level," he said.

The former Atletico Mineiro defender also stressed that maintaining consistency at club level and making the most of every international opportunity would be crucial to his ambitions.

Santos believes his experience in European football has helped him become a more complete player, but he remains determined to continue improving.

He acknowledged that nobody has a guaranteed place in the Brazil team and that players must demonstrate their quality on the pitch.

"I believe I am living a moment of maturity in my career, both because of the experience I acquired in European football and because of the opportunities I had representing the national team.

"I know that competition is great and that nobody has a guaranteed spot, so the most important thing is to have regularity, be physically well and demonstrate on the pitch that I can contribute," he explained.

The defender also welcomed the emergence of younger players in the national team, insisting that experienced members of the squad have a responsibility to guide the next generation.

Brazil's immediate focus is on their November international fixtures, beginning with a meeting against Japan in Singapore on November 14.

Santos expects a difficult encounter against the Asian side, who gave Brazil problems during their previous meeting at the World Cup.

He believes the Selecao must maintain concentration throughout the match and manage the game better if they are to secure victory.

The Zenit defender will now be hoping to impress Ancelotti during the upcoming fixtures as he continues his fight to secure a regular place in the Brazil squad.