After Brazil`s national team was defeated by Argentina in a World Cup qualifying match, there`s talk of potential changes. The Brazilian Football Confederation has reportedly contacted Carlo Ancelotti, the current Real Madrid head coach, about the possibility of him leading the national team as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup, according to The Athletic. Bringing in Ancelotti, who Brazil has considered before, would be complex but potentially achievable after the current club season concludes for Real Madrid.
It`s unlikely Ancelotti would join Brazil before the end of the club season. Real Madrid is currently competing in the Champions League quarterfinals and contending for the La Liga title. However, Brazil`s next competitive games aren`t until June, when they play Ecuador. This timeline might allow for an agreement before Real Madrid participates in the Club World Cup in the United States in June.
Brazil had previously considered Ancelotti to take over in the summer of 2024 after Tite stepped down as manager. They appointed Fernando Diniz as an interim coach while Ancelotti considered his options. Ultimately, Ancelotti extended his contract with Real Madrid until 2026, resolving the uncertainty about his future.
Brazil then replaced Diniz with Dorival Junior, but the team`s performance hasn`t improved, with Brazil failing to win three of their last five games. The loss to Argentina could be a decisive factor, pushing the program to make significant changes to improve their chances of winning the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Ancelotti`s familiarity with Brazilian players like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Eder Militao, and Endrick, who already play for Real Madrid, could be an advantage if he were to coach the team.
Ancelotti`s Potential Fit for Brazil
Ancelotti is known for creating systems that allow talented players to shine while functioning as a cohesive team. This approach could address a key issue for Brazil`s national team. Despite having immense individual talent, Brazil often performs more like a collection of individuals rather than a united team. With the World Cup approaching, Brazil needs to act quickly if they want to make a change, as there`s just over a year until the tournament. Ancelotti would need to utilize every upcoming international break to build a stronger defensive structure through consistent teamwork and player familiarity. Only four qualifying matches remain between June and September, followed shortly by the World Cup, leaving limited time for friendly matches as preparation.
While Brazil`s attacking lineup might be relatively settled, the composition of the midfield and defense is less clear. The team is in a precarious position, and failing to address these issues could lead to another disappointing World Cup performance.
Real Madrid`s Possible Replacements
If Real Madrid were to need a new manager, Xabi Alonso, who is performing exceptionally well at Bayer Leverkusen, would be a likely candidate. Despite signing a contract extension with the German club after winning the Bundesliga title in the 2023-24 season, Real Madrid could still pursue him. With other top managerial positions filled by Arne Slot at Liverpool and Vincent Kompany at Bayern Munich, Madrid would be a natural next step for Alonso, considering his history as a Real Madrid player and his early coaching experience with the club`s youth teams.
Alonso`s Champions League experience with Leverkusen this season would make him even more prepared for a high-profile move compared to last season. He has also navigated challenges like injuries this season, further preparing him for the next stage of his career. While hiring Alonso would be a risk for both Madrid and Alonso, replacing a manager of Ancelotti`s caliber is never easy, and Alonso is among the most qualified candidates for the job.
