Carlo Ancelotti is set to become the new head coach of the Brazilian national football team. This widely anticipated move follows his departure from Real Madrid at the end of the 2024-25 season.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) officially confirmed the appointment, highlighting Ancelotti as a legendary figure and the most successful manager in football history. He will officially begin his role on May 26, 2025, after the conclusion of the La Liga season, in preparation for Brazil`s 2026 World Cup qualifiers in June. This appointment marks a historic moment as Ancelotti becomes the first foreign manager to lead the Seleção. The CBF described it as a meeting of icons: the five-time World Cup champions and a coach with unparalleled success in European elite competitions, welcoming him to usher in a new era.
Following Ancelotti`s departure, Real Madrid is expected to appoint Xabi Alonso, who recently announced his exit from Bayer Leverkusen. Alonso is anticipated to start his new position after the current La Liga season concludes. Meanwhile, Ancelotti`s move to Brazil marks his first managerial role with a national team, beginning ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers in June, where Brazil will face Ecuador and Paraguay.
Reports indicate that Ancelotti has already signed his contract with Brazil. Negotiations, reportedly handled by Brazilian businessman Diego Fernandes, led to a one-year agreement valid until the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. While the path to agreement was reportedly challenging, with talks momentarily stalling, the deal is now finalized, paving the way for Ancelotti`s new chapter in Brazil.
Ancelotti is widely recognized as one of football`s most accomplished managers. His illustrious career boasts 31 major trophies across Italy, France, Germany, Spain, and England. He holds the unique distinction of being the only manager to have won league titles in all five of Europe`s major football leagues. Furthermore, he holds records for the most Champions League titles (five) and UEFA Super Cup titles (five) as a coach. Adding a major trophy with a national team like Brazil would undoubtedly be another significant achievement in the career of this highly influential figure, particularly with Brazil being the only nation to have qualified for every single World Cup tournament.
Adrian Whitmore