Carlo Ancelotti Named Head Coach of Brazil National Soccer Team

BRASILIA, Brazil — Carlo Ancelotti has officially been appointed as the head coach of the Brazil national soccer team, with his new role set to begin on May 26, 2025. The experienced Italian manager will leave Real Madrid after their final La Liga match against Real Sociedad to take charge of Brazil’s 2026 World Cup qualification campaign.

The announcement confirms Ancelotti as Brazil’s first foreign head coach in the men’s soccer history. Having signed agreements and finalized contracts, he is expected to lead Brazil towards a record-extending sixth title at the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Ancelotti, 65, had a year left on his contract with Real Madrid, but after cordial discussions with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), he agreed to the move. Diego Fernandes represented the CBF in negotiations that paved the way for this historic appointment.

Having re-joined Madrid in 2021, Ancelotti won two La Liga titles and three Champions League trophies. However, his time at Madrid faced challenges as the team exited the Champions League at the quarter-final stage to Arsenal and lost the Copa del Rey final to Barcelona, leaving them trailing Hansi Flick‘s side by seven points in La Liga.

His first match in charge of Brazil will be a vital World Cup qualifier against Ecuador on June 6. He replaces Dorival Junior, who was dismissed in March after a 14-month tenure.

Known for his tactical expertise, Ancelotti’s appointment is seen as a significant achievement for Brazilian soccer as they look to re-establish their dominance on the world stage.