Following a defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifiers, the Brazilian national team may be on the verge of significant changes. The Brazilian Football Confederation has reportedly contacted Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid`s current coach, about potentially taking over as their head coach for the 2026 World Cup. While securing Ancelotti would be complex, Brazil`s interest in him is not new, having considered him before. A move might be feasible after the current European 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 in contention for the La Liga title. However, considering Brazil`s next competitive matches aren`t until June, when they play Ecuador, there might be an opportunity for an agreement before Real Madrid participates in the Club World Cup in the United States in June.
Brazil had previously considered Ancelotti for the national team manager position in the summer of 2024 after Tite`s departure. They appointed Fernando Diniz as interim manager while awaiting Ancelotti`s decision. Ultimately, Ancelotti extended his contract with Real Madrid until 2026, resolving speculation about his future.
Brazil then replaced Diniz with Dorival Junior, but the team`s performance hasn`t improved, failing to win three of their last five games. The loss to Argentina could be the catalyst for change, pushing the Brazilian program to recognize the need for adjustments to enhance their chances of winning the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Ancelotti`s existing relationships with Real Madrid players like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Eder Militao, and Endrick, who are all part of the Brazilian national team, could be an advantage if he were to coach Brazil.
Ancelotti`s Suitability
Ancelotti`s ability to create a system that allows star players to shine while functioning as a cohesive team could address a key issue for Brazil. Despite their abundant talent, Brazil often plays more like a collection of individuals than a united team. With the World Cup approaching, Brazil needs to act quickly if they want to make a coaching change, as there`s just over a year left until the tournament. Ancelotti would need to utilize every upcoming international break, especially as Brazil needs to build a stronger defensive structure, which requires consistent training and match time with the selected players. Only four qualifying matches remain in this World Cup cycle between June 4 and September 14, followed quickly by the World Cup, with limited friendly matches available for preparation.
While the attack might be largely settled, the composition behind the forward line is uncertain. The team is in a precarious position, and failing to address these issues could lead to another disappointing World Cup performance.
Madrid`s Potential Replacement
If Real Madrid were to need a new manager, Xabi Alonso, who is performing well at Bayer Leverkusen, would be a likely candidate. Despite extending his contract with the German club after winning the Bundesliga in the 2023-24 season, Real Madrid could still pursue him. While other potential candidates exist, such as Arne Slot at Liverpool and Vincent Kompany at Bayern Munich, Alonso might be the most probable choice for Madrid if Ancelotti departs, considering his history as a Real Madrid player and his early coaching experience within the club`s youth system.
Alonso`s Champions League experience with Leverkusen this season would make him more prepared for a move to a top club compared to last season. He has also navigated challenges like injuries this season, further preparing him for the next stage in his career. Hiring Alonso would be a risk for Madrid, and for Alonso himself, but replacing a manager of Ancelotti`s caliber is never easy, and Alonso is among the most qualified candidates for the role.
