Carlo Ancelotti, the head coach of Real Madrid, is set to take over the Brazil national team on May 26, with the aim of guiding the five-time World Cup winners to their first title since 2002. His predecessor, Dorival Junior, was dismissed in March following a heavy 4-1 defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifying. Here, News Central highlights three reasons why Ancelotti could succeed in this high-pressure role.
- Calm Demeanour
Ancelotti is renowned for his calm and composed character, making him an ideal candidate for the demanding job of managing Brazil. Known for his warm, measured approach, the Italian coach has excelled in similar high-stakes environments with some of Europe’s top clubs, including Real Madrid, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain.
The pressure on Brazil will be immense, particularly with Argentina currently holding the World Cup trophy, and expectations will only increase as the 2026 tournament approaches. However, Ancelotti’s unflappable nature, as well as his reputation for handling intense scrutiny from fans and media, will serve him well. He is set to become the first foreign coach to lead Brazil into a World Cup.
Brazilian legend Zico, in 2023, spoke highly of Ancelotti, stating: “Ancelotti would be ideal because everyone, including opponents, respects him. He knows football and understands that players are more important than tactics.” Ancelotti’s ability to manage players effectively is also a key strength, enabling him to get the best out of Brazil’s talented squad.
- Strong Relationships with Key Players
With Neymar set to turn 34 ahead of the 2026 World Cup, it is likely he will not feature for Brazil in the tournament due to ongoing injury concerns. Instead, Ancelotti will likely rely on Vinicius Junior, who has flourished under his guidance at Real Madrid. The 24-year-old has blossomed into one of the top players in La Liga, thanks to Ancelotti’s mentorship.
Rodrygo Goes, another key player, has won two Champions League titles under Ancelotti’s management, as has defender Eder Militao. Teenage forward Endrick, who has already made an impact for Brazil, is another player who could benefit from Ancelotti’s experience, having featured 35 times for Madrid this season, scoring seven goals across all competitions.
- A Personal Challenge
Ancelotti is the only coach in history to have won the top five European leagues and now faces a new challenge in international football. The World Cup is the final achievement missing from his illustrious managerial career.
Having won the Champions League twice as a player with AC Milan and twice more as a coach, in addition to three more victories with Real Madrid, Ancelotti has established himself as one of the most decorated managers in the game. With five Champions League wins, he holds a record that places him ahead of any other manager.
After a period in the football wilderness, including a stint at Everton in 2019, Ancelotti’s reappointment at Real Madrid in 2021 has proven fruitful. Now, the 65-year-old sets his sights on leading Brazil to World Cup glory, adding the final missing piece to his extraordinary trophy cabi