In a stunning development, Carlo Ancelotti and the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) have reached an agreement in principle for the Italian to take over as the Seleção head coach ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Deal Confirmed – No Club World Cup Delay
Sources confirm that Ancelotti’s deal with Brazil will take effect in June, meaning he will not stay at Real Madrid beyond the current season—regardless of the outcome of the FIFA Club World Cup in December 2025. The agreement signals the end of Ancelotti’s second spell with Los Blancos, a tenure that has already brought La Liga, Champions League, and Copa del Rey success.
While the deal is in place, formal steps still need to be completed, including final contract negotiations and an official announcement. However, both Real Madrid and Ancelotti are reportedly on good terms regarding the transition, with an amicable departure expected.
Brazil’s Search for Stability Ends
Ancelotti has been linked with the Brazilian national team job for over a year, with CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues identifying him as the ideal candidate to lead Brazil into the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The Seleção has lacked consistency in leadership following Tite’s departure after the 2022 World Cup. The interim period, which included Fernando Diniz’s short stint, was always viewed as a placeholder until Ancelotti became available.
With one of the most decorated managers in football history at the helm, Brazil hopes to reclaim its sixth World Cup title, something they haven’t achieved since 2002.
What’s Next for Real Madrid?
With Ancelotti’s departure now imminent, speculation will intensify over who will take over at Real Madrid. Early candidates include Xabi Alonso, currently excelling with Bayer Leverkusen, and Zinedine Zidane, who could return for a third spell in charge.
For now, Ancelotti remains focused on finishing his tenure at Madrid on a high note, with the La Liga title race and the Champions League knockout stages still to play.
Stay tuned for further updates as the official confirmation of Ancelotti’s Brazil move is expected in the coming weeks.