Brazil Revives Interest in Carlo Ancelotti for 2026 World Cup
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is reigniting discussions with Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti about taking charge of the national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This development comes as pressure mounts on current coach Dorival Junior following Brazil’s crushing 4-1 defeat to Argentina in the World Cup qualifiers.
CBF had previously attempted to secure Ancelotti’s services in 2023, but the Italian tactician chose to extend his stay at Real Madrid, signing a contract that runs until 2026. However, new reports from The Athletic indicate that Brazil has reopened negotiations amid growing concerns over the team’s performance in the South American qualifiers.
Ancelotti Was Close to Joining Brazil in 2023
Brazilian football icon Ronaldo Nazário previously revealed that Ancelotti was seriously considering a move to the Seleção before Real Madrid decided to retain him.
“I was involved in discussions with Carlo, but he was not allowed to leave,” Ronaldo shared on Charla Podcast. “Had he not won any titles, Madrid might have sacked him, and he would have joined Brazil.”
CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues had earlier assured fans that Ancelotti would take over once his contract in Spain expired. However, that transition never happened. Instead, Brazil appointed Fernando Diniz as interim coach before bringing in Dorival Junior on a permanent basis.
Brazil’s Qualification Struggles Fuel Speculation
With Brazil currently fourth in the CONMEBOL standings—eight points behind table leaders Argentina—the pressure for a coaching change has intensified. While they still have a six-point lead over seventh-placed Venezuela, which would require a play-off to qualify, the team’s recent performances have raised concerns.
Although Ancelotti remains committed to Madrid, speculation about his future continues, especially with Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso rumored to be a potential successor at the Santiago Bernabéu.
With four qualifying matches remaining, Brazil’s push to bring in Ancelotti remains a key storyline. Whether the veteran coach will make the switch to international football is yet to be seen, but CBF’s pursuit is far from over.
