Carlo Ancelotti is set to become the new coach of the Brazilian national team, marking a significant shift in his illustrious career. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has reached an agreement with the Italian manager, who is expected to officially assume his role in June 2025. This development comes at a crucial time, as Ancelotti will lead Brazil into important World Cup qualifying matches against Ecuador on June 5 and Paraguay on June 10.
According to reports from renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, the CBF is eager to have Ancelotti on board before the upcoming FIFA international match window. The timing is strategic, as the CBF aims to finalize the contract before Ancelotti's commitment to the Club World Cup, where Real Madrid is set to compete. Ancelotti's potential departure from Real Madrid is anticipated to occur after the conclusion of La Liga on May 25, 2025, when they face Real Sociedad.
The CBF's president, Ednaldo Rodrigues, has been central to the negotiations, with support from businessman Diego Fernandes, who has been instrumental in facilitating discussions with Ancelotti. The CBF is hopeful that Ancelotti will be able to participate in the selection process for the national team ahead of the qualifiers, showcasing the urgency of the negotiations.
Despite a contract with Real Madrid that extends until 2026, Ancelotti's tenure at the club is perceived to be nearing its end following a season marked by inconsistency. Real Madrid's recent defeat to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final has further fueled speculation about Ancelotti's future. Reports suggest that Xabi Alonso, currently managing Bayer Leverkusen, is the frontrunner to replace Ancelotti at Real Madrid.
"I can stay (at Real) or I can stop. This will be a topic for the coming weeks, not today," Ancelotti stated during a press conference following the loss to Barcelona. His words reflect the uncertainty surrounding his position as he prepares for a potential switch to the Brazilian national team.
The CBF has been pursuing Ancelotti since 2023, initially engaging him to replace interim coach Ramon Menezes, but negotiations faltered due to political turmoil within the organization. Following the dismissal of Dorival Junior after a disappointing performance against Argentina, the CBF intensified their efforts to secure Ancelotti's services.
With the Brazilian national team currently lacking a permanent coach, the pressure is mounting for the CBF to finalize the deal with Ancelotti. The upcoming FIFA dates are pivotal, as they will not only serve as preparation for the World Cup qualifiers but also mark a one-year countdown to the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
As Ancelotti gears up for this new challenge, he will face the task of balancing experienced players with emerging talents in the Brazilian squad. The national team's rich history and high expectations for success will add to the weight of his responsibilities.
In conclusion, the prospect of Carlo Ancelotti taking the helm of the Brazilian national team is generating excitement among fans and stakeholders alike. With the CBF aiming for a swift resolution to the negotiations, all eyes will be on the developments in the coming weeks as Brazil prepares for a crucial phase in their World Cup campaign.
