It’s now official — legendary Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti has been confirmed as the new head coach of the Brazilian National Team. The 65-year-old will take charge just in time for Brazil’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Ecuador and Paraguay this June.

Ancelotti Leaves Real Madrid to Take Over Brazil Job

After months of speculation, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced that Ancelotti will make his debut on June 5 against Ecuador, followed by another qualifier on June 10 against Paraguay. His appointment marks a major shift in Brazil’s approach to reclaim global dominance in football.

“Bringing Carlo Ancelotti to command Brazil is more than a strategic move. It’s a statement to the world,” said CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues. “He’s the greatest coach in history, and now he’s leading the greatest national team on the planet.”

Farewell Match at Real Madrid Set for May 24

Ancelotti will officially bid farewell to Real Madrid on May 24 when they face Real Sociedad at the Santiago Bernabéu. Although Ancelotti had a contract running through June 2026, the club and coach reached a mutual agreement to terminate early, allowing him to take on the Brazil job.

Xabi Alonso, who recently confirmed his departure from Bayer Leverkusen, is expected to take over the Real Madrid post and lead the squad into the upcoming Super Club World Cup.

Despite the presence of stars like Vini Jr. and Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid’s 2024/25 season may close with only the UEFA Super Cup and the Intercontinental Cup as silverware, as rivals Barcelona hold a commanding lead in La Liga.

Brazil Squad Selection Underway Without Ancelotti

Although Ancelotti will lead the national team in June, Brazil’s squad list for the qualifiers must be submitted to FIFA by Sunday, May 18. Until Ancelotti officially assumes control, the CBF’s national teams director Rodrigo Caetano and technical coordinator Juan are expected to select the 23-man squad.

Brazil currently sits fourth in the South American qualification standings with 21 points, just ahead of Paraguay and Colombia. With only a narrow margin separating the top teams, Ancelotti’s debut matches could prove crucial in securing direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Brazil’s Upcoming World Cup Qualifiers:

• 🇪🇨 June 5 vs. Ecuador – Monumental de Guayaquil

• 🇵🇾 June 10 vs. Paraguay – Neo Química Arena