Carlo Ancelotti Begins Role as Brazil’s New Head Coach

Carlo Ancelotti is officially in Brazil, starting his new role as head coach of the national team. The famous Italian coach arrived in style, wearing his usual cap, ready to lead the five-time world champions into a new chapter.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Brazilian Football Confederation announced Ancelotti‘s hiring earlier this month. Today, he officially begins. The 65-year-old left Real Madrid after the La Liga season and is now leading the Seleção. Ancelotti is the first foreign coach in Brazil’s history, replacing Dorival Júnior. This shows Brazil’s commitment to returning to the top of world football.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Ancelotti has a remarkable track record, winning 31 titles as a manager, including five Champions League trophies. He won three with Real Madrid and two with AC Milan. At Real Madrid, he also claimed two La Liga titles and many other trophies during his two tenures. Brazil is currently 4th in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings with 21 points, in position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup with four matches left.

Ednaldo Rodrigues, president of the Brazilian Football Confederation, explained the importance of this decision, saying, “Bringing Carlo Ancelotti to lead Brazil is more than a strategic move. It’s a statement to the world that we are determined to reclaim the top spot on the podium.”

WHAT’S NEXT FOR ANCELOTTI?

Ancelotti immediately faces World Cup qualifying matches against Ecuador and Paraguay in June. These games will be vital in Brazil’s quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in North America. The Italian coach will work with familiar players from Real Madrid like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Endrick, along with other Brazilian stars like Raphinha, Gabriel, and Bruno Guimarães.

Ancelotti signed a one-year deal to lead Brazil through the 2026 World Cup, giving him a little over a year to establish his tactical ideas. With his record of success in Europe’s top leagues, Brazilian fans hope he can bring the Seleção back to World Cup victory for the first time since 2002.