Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has been officially named the new head coach of the Brazil national team, the Brazilian Football Confederation confirmed on Monday.
The 65-year-old Italian will take charge after his final match with Real Madrid against Real Sociedad on May 26.
Renowned sports journalist David Ornstein reported the historic appointment, marking the first time Brazil has selected a foreign coach for its men’s national team.
“Agreements are in place and contracts signed for him to become Brazil’s first foreign appointment in the men’s dugout,” Ornstein stated.
“Ancelotti had a year left on his terms at the Bernabeu but a deal was confirmed following cordial talks between all parties, facilitated and led by Diego Fernandes on behalf of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).”
The report added, “Among the most successful managers in football history, Ancelotti is to pick up Brazil’s 2026 World Cup qualification campaign, with the aim of a record-extending sixth triumph at the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.”
Ancelotti replaces Dorival Junior, who was dismissed in March after just 14 months in charge. His first match will be a crucial World Cup qualifier against Ecuador on June 6 as Brazil seeks to secure its place in the 2026 tournament.
The Athletic had previously reported that Ancelotti agreed to lead Brazil through the 2026 World Cup cycle. His appointment ends months of speculation after the CBF initially targeted him in 2023 before settling on Dorival.
Since rejoining Real Madrid in 2021, Ancelotti has added two La Liga titles and another Champions League trophy to his impressive resume, which includes eight major European finals as a manager.
However, his final season in Madrid has been underwhelming by the club’s lofty standards. The Spanish giants suffered a Champions League quarter-final exit to Arsenal, lost the Copa del Rey final to Barcelona, and trail league leaders Barcelona by seven points with just three matches remaining.
The CBF’s decision to break tradition by hiring a foreign coach reflects their ambition to reclaim World Cup glory after their 2022 quarter-final exit. Ancelotti’s vast experience managing global superstars makes him an ideal candidate to harness Brazil’s talented squad, including Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Endrick.
Brazil currently sits sixth in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying after mixed results under Dorival. Ancelotti’s immediate task will be to stabilize the team and build momentum ahead of next year’s Copa America in the United States.
Quotes:
“This is a historic moment for Brazilian football. Ancelotti’s pedigree speaks for itself.” – CBF official
“He understands how to manage big players and big expectations. Perfect fit for Brazil.” – Football analyst
Upcoming Schedule:
– May 26: Final Real Madrid match vs Real Sociedad
– June 6: World Cup qualifier vs Ecuador (Ancelotti’s debut)
– 2025: Copa America campaign
The appointment makes Ancelotti the most high-profile manager to lead Brazil since their 2002 World Cup triumph under Luiz Felipe Scolari. All eyes will be on how the tactical maestro adapts to international management after decades of club success.
