Carlo Ancelotti takes helm of Brazil’s national football team

Carlo Ancelotti is poised to leave Real Madrid at the conclusion of the current season to take on the role of head coach for the Brazilian national football team. This move marks a significant milestone as he will become the first foreign coach to manage Brazil's men's national team.

Ancelotti, a legendary figure in football, has solidified his place in history as Real Madrid’s most decorated coach, amassing an impressive 15 trophies during two tenures at the club. Over his seven years with Los Blancos, the 65-year-old tactician achieved remarkable success, including five UEFA Champions League titles—the highest number won by any manager—and three FIFA Club World Cups. Notably, he is the only manager to have clinched the domestic league title in each of Europe’s top five leagues.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has sought an experienced and high-profile coach to lead their talented squad, and Ancelotti fits the bill perfectly. He is expected to assume his duties on May 26, with the primary objective of guiding Brazil to success in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The last time Brazil lifted the trophy was in 2002 during the tournament held in South Korea and Japan.

Ancelotti's tactical flexibility and adeptness at managing star-studded lineups are qualities the CBF values highly. His extensive experience in high-pressure environments, coupled with his calm demeanor, positions him as an ideal leader for Brazil as they seek to reclaim their status as a dominant force in international football.

While Ancelotti still had a year remaining on his contract with Real Madrid, the club opted for a change following a disappointing 2024/25 season. The team failed to secure any major titles, losing out on both La Liga and the Champions League, and suffered four consecutive defeats to Barcelona in El Clásico—a first since 2009.

Ancelotti's departure will pave the way for Xabi Alonso, a former Real Madrid player, to take over at the club. Alonso has garnered attention for his successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the team to an unbeaten Bundesliga title, marking a historic achievement for the club.

In this new chapter, Ancelotti's wealth of experience and strategic acumen will be crucial as he aims to elevate Brazil’s footballing legacy on the world stage.