The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has officially confirmed that Carlo Ancelotti will become the new head coach of the Brazil national football team starting May 26, 2025. This historic move marks the first time Brazil will be led by a foreign coach, and it comes as the five-time world champions prepare for a renewed challenge at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A Bold Move by the CBF
According to CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues, Ancelotti’s appointment is not just a tactical decision, but a bold statement of Brazil’s ambition to reclaim its dominance in world football. Rodrigues described Ancelotti as “the greatest coach in history” and said that hiring him is a symbol of Brazil’s commitment to returning to the top of the global stage. The CBF is determined to write a new and glorious chapter for Brazilian football.
Massive Salary and World Cup Bonus
Ancelotti is expected to earn around €177,500 per week (approximately $197,000), making him the highest-paid coach in Brazil’s history. That figure is more than double what his predecessors, Tite and Dorival Júnior, earned during their time in charge. On top of that, Ancelotti will receive a €5 million bonus if he manages to lead Brazil to a sixth World Cup title in 2026.
Real Madrid’s Difficult Season Pushed the Move Forward
Although Ancelotti’s current contract with Real Madrid runs until June 2026, pressure has been building following a series of disappointing results. This season, Madrid were eliminated by Arsenal in the Champions League quarterfinals, lost to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final, and fell short in four Clásico meetings, including a recent 4-3 defeat at Montjuïc that effectively ended their LaLiga title hopes.
Despite the recent struggles, Ancelotti remains one of the most successful coaches in the club’s history. Across two spells at Madrid, he has won three Champions League titles and two LaLiga trophies, earning the respect of fans and players alike.
Xabi Alonso Set to Succeed Ancelotti at Madrid
With Ancelotti’s departure confirmed, Real Madrid is reportedly close to finalizing a deal with Xabi Alonso to take over as head coach. Alonso, a former Madrid midfielder who played from 2009 to 2014, is currently managing Bayer Leverkusen and has announced that he will leave the German club at the end of the Bundesliga season. Alonso previously began his coaching career in Madrid’s academy, and sources say he has always been the club’s top candidate to succeed Ancelotti.
Uncertainty Over Club World Cup Coaching Role
Real Madrid has yet to announce who will coach the team during the FIFA Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 18 in Miami, Florida. Madrid is set to face Al Hilal in their first match. While Ancelotti is still expected to lead the team until the end of the 2024–25 LaLiga season, the timing of his Brazil move and the summer tournament leaves questions about who will manage the team during the Club World Cup.
CBF Thanks Real Madrid and Negotiators
In its official statement, the CBF extended its appreciation to Real Madrid and club president Florentino Pérez for their cooperation in releasing Ancelotti before his contract ended. The CBF also credited Brazilian businessman Diego Fernandes for helping to negotiate and finalize the agreement, which the federation described as being done with mutual respect and professionalism.
A New Era Begins for Brazilian Football
Ancelotti’s arrival is expected to usher in a new era for Brazil’s national team. With his calm leadership style, deep tactical knowledge, and a proven track record of success at the highest level, he is seen as the ideal figure to guide the Seleção back to glory. With top-tier talent in Brazil’s player pool and a World Cup on the horizon, all eyes will be on Ancelotti to bring a new identity and winning culture to the team.
The countdown to the 2026 World Cup has officially begun, and Brazil has made its intentions clear: they want to be champions again — and they’re betting on one of the most respected managers in football to get them there.
