Carlo Ancelotti is set to become the new head coach of the Brazilian national football team, the CBF officially announced. The highly anticipated move will see the Italian manager leave Real Madrid at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. Ancelotti, celebrated as one of football`s most successful managers, is scheduled to officially begin his role on May 26, 2025, just before Brazil`s FIFA World Cup qualifying matches in June. This marks a historic moment as Ancelotti becomes the first foreign manager in the history of the Seleção.
The CBF statement highlighted the significance of this union between Brazil, the only five-time World Cup champions, and a coach with unparalleled success in Europe`s top leagues. The federation expressed its warm welcome and anticipation for a successful new era under his guidance.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid is reportedly planning to appoint Xabi Alonso as Ancelotti`s successor. Alonso recently confirmed he will be leaving Bayer Leverkusen. He is expected to take over at Real Madrid after the current La Liga season ends, around the same time Ancelotti begins his tenure with Brazil – his first ever national team job – ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay in June 2025.
According to reports, Ancelotti has already finalized and signed the contract with Brazil. Negotiations were handled by Brazilian businessman Diego Fernandes. It is a one-year agreement, valid through the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The path to this agreement was reportedly challenging, with the deal almost collapsing at one point before talks resumed, ultimately leading to Ancelotti`s commitment to the Brazilian national team.
While the move is set for next year, Real Madrid`s recent performances, such as their exit from the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals and losses in the Copa del Rey final and a significant La Liga Clasico against Barcelona, are noted contextually.
Ancelotti`s esteemed career is highlighted by his status as one of the most successful managers ever. He has accumulated 31 major trophies across Italy, France, Germany, Spain, and England, becoming the only coach to win league titles in all five of Europe`s top leagues. He also holds records for the most Champions League titles (five) and UEFA Super Cup titles (five). Taking charge of a national team like Brazil, the only nation to have qualified for every World Cup, presents an opportunity for Ancelotti to add a new significant achievement to his already remarkable legacy.
