Introduction
Carlo Ancelotti’s tenure at Real Madrid has been defined by success, tactical prowess, and an ability to manage elite players effectively. However, with Brazil once again seeking a new national team manager after dismissing Dorival Júnior, the opportunity for Ancelotti to lead the Seleção presents a compelling case. With his experience, temperament, and tactical adaptability, he could be the perfect fit for the South American giants.
Brazil's Managerial Void
Brazil's Football Confederation (CBF) recently sacked Dorival Júnior following a humiliating defeat against Argentina 4-1 in the World Cup qualifiers. The loss was part of a series of lackluster performances that nudged the federation to seek a world-class tactician to revamp the team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Some names have been proposed as potential successors, but Carlo Ancelotti is the most preferred. His ability to build team cohesion, manage superstars, and deliver major titles makes him an attractive option for the CBF. The Brazilian federation is said to be eager to secure him ahead of the next World Cup qualifiers.
Ancelotti's Current Standing at Real Madrid
Ancelotti went back to Real Madrid in 2021 and has gone on to deliver multiple trophies, including two UEFA Champions League titles (2022 and 2024), cementing his status as football's best manager.
In January 2024, he renewed his Real Madrid contract until 2026, stating publicly that he was content at the club and eager to remain. Football, naturally, is full of surprises, and Ancelotti himself has admitted that his fate is ultimately in the hands of club president Florentino Pérez.
In a recent interview, Ancelotti acknowledged the uncertainty, saying, \"I don't decide when to leave, the president will. It will happen sooner or later.\" (Sportskeeda).
Why Brazil Makes Sense for Ancelotti
International football is distinct from club football, and it requires a manager who is able to create a team within a limited time. This is where Ancelotti stands out—his man-management, tactical flexibility, and confidence-inspiring skills could just be what Brazil needs.
Less Tactical Complexity, More Player Management
Unlike club football, where managers have time to implement complex tactical systems, international football is more about creating the right atmosphere and extracting the best from top-tier talent. Ancelotti’s pragmatic approach, rather than an overly rigid tactical philosophy, aligns well with Brazil’s needs.
The Chance to Cement His Legacy
Ancelotti has had experience winning league titles in Italy, England, France, Germany, and Spain—a first. But to win a World Cup with Brazil would be a career pinnacle. Brazil possess the quality and talent, in the form of Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Gabriel Martinelli, to do so, but it needs the leadership to get it all to work.
Less Pressure, More Prestige
Despite the enormous expectations from the Brazilian national team, pressure on a daily basis is much lower than it is at Real Madrid. Club-wise, one or two disappointments can see a change of manager, but foreign managers usually get longer periods of time to prove themselves. This would allow Ancelotti to do what he does best—build a winning team.
Possible Challenges for Ancelotti in Brazil
While the Brazil role is prominent, it isn't without itsecaheilities:
- Adaptation to International Management – Ancelotti has never managed a national team, and the sporadic nature of international matches might be an adjustment.
- Dealing with Expectations – The Brazilian public and media have an inflated expectation of success, and anything less than a World Cup championship would constitute failure.
- Dealing with Club vs. Country Commitments – With an agreement at Real Madrid until 2026, a premature departure would involve negotiating.
What's Next for Ancelotti?
If Brazil officially extends the invitation to him, Ancelotti will have an extremely tough decision to make. Does he continue his rule at Real Madrid, going after another Champions League title, or does he try his hand at guiding Brazil to World Cup success?
There are indications that the CBF is willing to wait until the end of the 2024-25 season to appoint Ancelotti, so he can finish the Madrid chapter on a high note.
Conclusion
Carlo Ancelotti has already cemented his status as one of the greatest football managers, but the opportunity to manage Brazil is a new challenge—one that can see him lift the greatest trophy in football. With his experience of handling world-class players, his winning record, and the particular demands of international football, the time may be right for him to answer the call of Brazil.
Would Ancelotti succeed with Brazil? Only time will tell, but if one coach can return the Seleção to where it was, it's him.