Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is poised for further discussions regarding the possibility of taking over as Brazil’s national team coach ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in June.
The 65-year-old Italian, who has enjoyed success in several top European clubs, including AC Milan, Chelsea, PSG, Bayern Munich, and Everton, will meet with representatives from the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) in the coming weeks.
Ancelotti’s Focus Amid Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey Setback
After Real Madrid’s disappointing 4-0 loss to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday, Ancelotti told reporters that his future would be a subject for future discussions. “This is a topic for the next weeks, not today,” he stated, reflecting on his immediate focus. However, Brazilian businessman Diego Fernandes, acting as an intermediary for the CBF, was spotted at the match, signaling ongoing talks about a potential move to Brazil.
The Brazil Job and Timing
Fernandes’ visit to Europe is part of an effort to convince Ancelotti to take over the Brazil national team once the Spanish domestic season concludes. If Ancelotti accepts, it could mean his departure from Real Madrid before the Club World Cup, which will take place in the United States this summer.
Ancelotti is the CBF’s preferred candidate to replace Dorival Junior, who was dismissed after Brazil’s disappointing 4-1 loss to Argentina in the recent World Cup qualifying match. Brazil currently sits fourth in the South American qualification standings. While they are still on track to qualify for the expanded 2026 World Cup, the CBF believes Ancelotti would provide the best chance for the team to contend for the tournament title.
Ancelotti’s Impressive Resume
The Italian coach has amassed a remarkable career, winning two La Liga titles and three Champions League trophies across two spells at Real Madrid, including a double victory last season. Despite this, Real Madrid is trailing Barcelona by four points in La Liga with just five matches left, and they were eliminated from the Champions League by Arsenal in the quarter-finals.
Potential Successor at Real Madrid
In the event that Ancelotti moves to Brazil, former Real Madrid player and current Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso is reportedly among the candidates being considered to replace him at the Santiago Bernabeu.
As talks with Brazil progress, Ancelotti’s decision could have significant implications for both Real Madrid and Brazil’s national football future.
