In a landmark decision, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has appointed Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti as the new head coach of the Brazil men’s national football team. The 65-year-old will officially take charge in May 2025, following the end of the European season, marking the first time in nearly a century that Brazil has chosen a foreign coach to lead the Seleção.
A Manager with a Golden Resume
Ancelotti’s managerial career is nothing short of legendary. With over two decades of experience at the top level, he has won league titles in five different countries—Italy, England, France, Germany, and Spain—and is the only manager to have lifted the UEFA Champions League five times. His calm authority, man-management skills, and tactical adaptability have made him one of the most respected figures in world football. He’s coached some of the biggest clubs in the world, including AC Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and most recently, Real Madrid. His reputation for building cohesive, winning teams was a major factor in CBF’s decision.
Breaking with Tradition
Brazil has long favored homegrown managers, making Ancelotti’s appointment a bold and unprecedented move. The last time a foreigner led the national team was in 1965, and even then, only on an interim basis. CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues described the decision as a “turning point” in Brazilian football, signaling a desire to blend international expertise with Brazil’s traditional flair.
“Ancelotti brings a winning mentality and a proven track record. We believe he’s the right person to guide Brazil into a new era,” Rodrigues said during the official announcement.
Familiar Faces and High Expectations
Ancelotti will be working with a number of familiar faces in the Brazil squad. Several players—such as Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Éder Militão—have already played under him at Real Madrid, which could ease the transition and help establish early trust within the team. His first major test will come in June 2025 when Brazil resumes its FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with matches against Ecuador and Paraguay. With the 2026 World Cup in sight, the pressure will be immense, but so will the opportunities.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 World Cup
Ancelotti’s contract runs through the 2026 World Cup, with the potential to extend depending on results. Brazil’s quest for a sixth World Cup title has been ongoing since their last triumph in 2002. Many hope that Ancelotti’s vast experience and cool-headed leadership will be the missing piece in returning Brazil to global dominance. While managing a national team poses different challenges compared to club football, Ancelotti’s wealth of knowledge and calm presence on the sidelines may be exactly what Brazil needs to restore its place at the top of world football.
About the Author
Arpit Sharma is a sports writer and journalism student at Chandigarh University, with a strong interest in sports analysis and storytelling. His writing combines match insights with a fresh, fan-first perspective that brings the game to life.
Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Vygr's views.
With inputs from agencies
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