Carlo Ancelotti has officially begun his tenure as Brazil’s head coach, describing his appointment as a “great honour” and pledging to restore the Selecao to their former global dominance, with the 2026 World Cup firmly in his sights.
Unveiled at the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) headquarters on Monday, the 65-year-old Italian coach appeared alongside CBF president Samir Xaud and received a symbolic national team shirt. Ancelotti, who left Real Madrid after four highly successful years, now takes on what may be the most ambitious and scrutinised job of his career.
“I have a big job ahead of me,” said Ancelotti during his first press conference in charge. “I’m delighted, the challenge is great. I’ve always had a special connection with this team. We’re going to work to make Brazil champions again. I’m honoured and proud to lead the best team in the world.”
Ancelotti brings a glittering managerial resume to Brazil. Across a remarkable career, he has won the Champions League four times — twice with AC Milan and twice with Real Madrid — alongside domestic league titles in Italy, England, France, Germany, and Spain. His tactical intelligence and ability to manage elite talents have earned him global respect.
He replaces Dorival Junior, who was dismissed in March after a string of poor results culminated in a 4–1 defeat to Argentina. That loss, described by Brazilian media as “humiliating,” prompted the CBF to expedite Ancelotti’s arrival.
Brazil, currently fourth in South American World Cup qualifying with four matches remaining, are still well-positioned to qualify directly for the 2026 tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the top six teams securing automatic spots. However, performances have been inconsistent since their quarter-final exit at the 2022 World Cup, where they were beaten on penalties by Croatia.
Since that loss, the Selecao have endured five defeats in their last 14 matches, conceding 16 goals. Ancelotti’s immediate task is to steady the ship, starting with upcoming qualifiers against Ecuador (5 June, away) and Paraguay (10 June, home in São Paulo).
The new boss was welcomed warmly by former Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari, who famously led the nation to their fifth World Cup triumph in 2002. Scolari’s presence underscored the significance of Ancelotti’s appointment and the weight of national expectation.
In his first squad announcement, Ancelotti made several notable inclusions and recalls. Manchester United midfielder Casemiro and Tottenham forward Richarlison return to the national setup after missing out since October 2023’s 2-0 defeat to Uruguay. Both players bring experience and leadership to a side in need of direction.
Liverpool’s Alisson, Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes, Fulham’s Andreas Pereira, and Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli also feature. Wolves striker Matheus Cunha — expected to seal a move to Manchester United — earns a place after a stellar Premier League season. Youngsters Estevao (Palmeiras) and Andrey Santos (Strasbourg) offer fresh energy, while Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr is likely to spearhead the attack.
Real Betis winger Antony, on loan from Manchester United, has also been called up and is expected to play in the UEFA Conference League final against Chelsea before linking up with the national team.
Star forward Neymar, who is still recovering from a thigh injury sustained in April, has been ruled out. However, he made a cameo return for Santos in their recent 1-0 win over Vitoria in the Brazilian Serie A, hinting at progress in his recovery.
Ancelotti’s appointment signals a new era for Brazil, one rooted in experience, tactical discipline, and ambition. As he prepares to lead the most decorated nation in World Cup history, expectations will be immense. But if anyone is equipped to shoulder them, it is the calm, commanding figure of Carlo Ancelotti.
