Following a defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifying, Brazil`s national team might be undergoing significant changes. The Brazilian Football Confederation has reportedly contacted Carlo Ancelotti, the current head coach of Real Madrid, about potentially leading their national team as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup, according to The Athletic. Securing Ancelotti would be complex, but Brazil`s interest in him is not new, having considered him before. A move could potentially happen at the end of the current club season for Real Madrid.
It`s unlikely Ancelotti would join Brazil before the end of Real Madrid`s season. Real Madrid is currently in the Champions League quarterfinals and competing for the La Liga title. However, considering Brazil`s next competitive matches are in June when they play Ecuador, there might be an opportunity for an agreement before Real Madrid participates in the Club World Cup in the United States in June.
Brazil had previously discussed the possibility of Ancelotti taking over in the summer of 2024 after Tite`s departure. Fernando Diniz was appointed as interim manager while Ancelotti considered his options. Ultimately, Ancelotti extended his contract with Real Madrid until 2026, resolving the uncertainty about his future.
Brazil then replaced Diniz with Dorival Junior, but the national team`s performance hasn`t improved, with them failing to win three of their last five games. The loss to Argentina could be the deciding factor, pushing Brazil to make changes to improve their chances of winning the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Ancelotti`s familiarity with Brazilian players like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Eder Militao, and Endrick, who already play for Real Madrid, could be an advantage if he were to coach the team.
Ancelotti`s Suitability
Ancelotti`s ability to create a system that allows star players to shine while functioning as a cohesive team could address a key issue for Brazil. Despite their individual talent, Brazil often plays like a collection of individuals rather than a united team. With the World Cup approaching, Brazil needs to act quickly if they want to make a change, as there`s just over a year until the tournament. Ancelotti would need to be involved in upcoming international breaks, especially since Brazil needs to develop better defensive coordination, which requires players to train together. Only four qualifying matches remain between June 4 and September 14, followed soon after by the World Cup, leaving limited time for friendly matches as preparation.
While the attack might be relatively settled, the composition of the midfield and defense is less clear. The team is in a precarious position, and failing to address these issues could lead to another disappointing World Cup performance.
Madrid`s Potential Options
If Real Madrid were to need a new manager, Xabi Alonso, who is performing well at Bayer Leverkusen, would be a likely candidate. Despite signing an extension with the German club after winning the Bundesliga in the 2023-24 season, Real Madrid could still pursue him. While Arne Slot is now at Liverpool and Vincent Kompany leads Bayern Munich, Alonso would be a leading contender for the Madrid job if Ancelotti were to leave, considering his history as a Real Madrid player and his early coaching experience with the club`s youth teams.
Alonso`s Champions League experience with Leverkusen this season would make him better prepared for a big club job compared to last season. He has also faced challenges with injuries this season, further preparing him for the next stage of his career. Hiring Alonso would be a risk for Madrid, but replacing a manager of Ancelotti`s caliber is never easy, and Alonso is among the most qualified candidates.
Dominic Ashworth