May 13, 2025 – In a historic move, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has confirmed that Carlo Ancelotti will take charge of the Brazilian national football team, with a contract running until the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The appointment was formally announced on Monday and marks the first time a foreign manager will lead the five-time World Cup champions.
The 65-year-old Ancelotti, widely regarded as one of the greatest football managers in history, is currently managing Real Madrid. He will depart from the Spanish giants following their final La Liga match of the season against Real Sociedad on May 25, with his official duties for Brazil beginning the next day.
“The greatest national team in football history will now be led by the most successful coach in the world,” the CBF declared in its official statement.
Ancelotti steps in to replace Dorival Junior, who was dismissed on March 28 after Brazil suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat against archrivals Argentina in a World Cup qualifying match.
While several high-profile names were under consideration—such as José Mourinho, Jorge Jesus, and Abel Ferreira—the CBF ultimately chose Ancelotti for his unmatched experience and trophy-laden career. Over the past three decades, he has managed elite clubs like Juventus, AC Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid, collecting numerous domestic and international titles, including 15 trophies during his two stints at Real Madrid.
CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues hailed the appointment, saying, “Bringing Carlo Ancelotti to Brazil is more than a strategic decision; it is a bold declaration of our ambitions to return to global dominance.”
Currently, Brazil sits fourth in the 10-team South American World Cup qualifying group, trailing leaders Argentina by 10 points with four games remaining. The top six teams will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, while the seventh will compete in an intercontinental playoff.
Ancelotti’s leadership is expected to bring tactical discipline and renewed hope as Brazil eyes its sixth World Cup title.