The report says Jacob Chapman, Eli Adams, Kealey Adamson, Yaya Dukuly and Marcus Younis have been included as Popovic looks beyond the established core. Kasey Bos and Dylan Leonard are also reportedly in contention for senior debuts.
For a coach building towards the 2027 Asian Cup, these matches offer more than a chance to reward domestic form. They are an opportunity to discover which players can handle the speed, pressure and tactical demands of international football against elite opposition.
The return of Riley McGree, Patrick Yazbek and Alexander Robertson would add further competition, giving Popovic a broader group to assess before the tournament squad takes shape.
The reported omission of Maty Ryan is one of the most striking elements of the selection. Ryan remains an experienced figure, but his absence would leave Patrick Beach, Paul Izzo and first-time call-up Chapman competing for responsibility.
That contest could become one of the defining storylines of the Brazil series. Australia need continuity, yet Popovic also appears willing to test alternatives while there is still time to make changes.
Australia are reportedly due to face Brazil in Townsville on 25 September and Brisbane four days later, giving the new faces a demanding introduction on home soil.
Popovic’s warning that “these matches are critical” captures the narrow preparation window ahead. The next test will be whether Australia can turn promising selections into a settled tournament plan.
The Townsville opener should reveal how aggressively Popovic intends to use the newcomers, while the Brisbane fixture may show which players have done enough to remain in the conversation.