In a groundbreaking move, the Brazilian Football Association (CBF) has appointed Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti as the new head coach of the Brazil men’s national football team. The announcement was made on Monday, confirming Ancelotti will take over after concluding his tenure at Real Madrid at the end of the 2024-25 season.
“The president of CBF Ednaldo Rodrigues has announced on Monday the signing of Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti,” read a statement released by the CBF.
Ancelotti, 65, becomes the first foreign coach to take charge of Brazil’s national team. His arrival signals a bold strategy by the CBF as Brazil aims to reclaim its dominance in international football.
“Bringing Carlo Ancelotti to lead Brazil is more than a strategic move. It is a statement to the world that we are determined to reclaim the top spot on the podium,” said Rodrigues. “He is the greatest coach in history and now he is leading the greatest national team on the planet. Together, we will write new glorious chapters for Brazilian football.”
Ancelotti exits Real Madrid as the club’s most decorated manager, having collected 15 titles. However, the current season will end trophyless for the Spanish giants. His last piece of silverware came in the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup, where Madrid triumphed over CF Pachuca in Qatar.
At the helm of Brazil, Ancelotti is set to make his debut in next month’s World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay. If Brazil qualifies, he will guide the team through the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
Ancelotti replaces Dorival Júnior, who was relieved of his duties in March after 14 months, following a heavy 4-1 loss to Argentina. Brazil is currently in fourth place in the South American qualifying standings after 14 games. The top six teams will qualify directly for the 2026 tournament.
The national team continues to grapple with challenges, notably the uncertain fitness of 33-year-old forward Neymar, who is recovering from a serious ACL injury sustained in 2023.
With Ancelotti’s international experience and tactical acumen, Brazil hopes to restore its footballing glory and add to its record five World Cup titles.
