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16 Apr 2025, Wed

Ancelotti faces pressure at Real Madrid and CBF dreams of a coach for the Brazilian National Team: contract until 2026

Ancelotti


Carlo Ancelotti is navigating turbulent times at Real Madrid. A stinging 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League quarterfinals has fueled criticism of the Italian manager, who has led the Spanish giants since 2021 in his second stint. Despite the rocky patch, Ancelotti retains the backing of the club’s leadership, who stand by him amid mounting challenges. Known for his composure in crises, the coach stressed that his future will only be addressed at season’s end, pointing to the clarity of his contract, which runs until June 2026. Meanwhile, in Brazil, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is closely monitoring developments, with Ancelotti as their top target to take over the national team, left vacant after Dorival Júnior’s departure.

Scrutiny is nothing new for Ancelotti. Across 260 matches in his current Real Madrid tenure, he has secured 188 wins, yet recent stumbles—like the Champions League loss and a four-point gap to Barcelona in La Liga—have reignited debates about his future. An imminent elimination against Arsenal, unless the team overturns the scoreline, could deepen the crisis. Still, Ancelotti keeps a steady tone, emphasizing the club’s support and the need to focus on upcoming fixtures, including the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona and preparations for the Club World Cup.

In Brazil, Ancelotti’s situation sparks hope. The CBF, under president Ednaldo Rodrigues, sees the Italian as the ideal figure to steer the national team into a new era, particularly with the 2026 World Cup looming. The organization reached out to him in 2023, before his contract extension with Real Madrid, but he chose to stay in Spain. Now, with the Brazil job open again, the CBF is biding its time, aware that any move hinges on Real Madrid’s performance in the coming weeks.

Real Madrid’s challenges and support

The 2024-25 season has tested Real Madrid’s resolve. After a strong start, the team struggled to maintain momentum, especially in high-stakes matches. The Arsenal defeat in the Champions League laid bare tactical weaknesses, with critics pointing to a lack of intensity and the underwhelming form of players like Vinicius Júnior, who has managed just six goals in 23 games in 2025. Ancelotti insists the issues are collective, refusing to single out individuals.

Beyond Europe, Real Madrid faces a tight race in La Liga. With eight rounds left, they trail Barcelona by four points, making the title chase a steep climb. The Copa del Rey final in late April offers a shot at redemption but also serves as a critical test for Ancelotti’s future. A win against their archrival could ease tensions, while a loss might amplify calls for change.

Yet, Ancelotti has a staunch ally in club president Florentino Pérez. Pérez has publicly endorsed the manager’s work, citing his knack for navigating storms and delivering silverware. Since 2021, Ancelotti has lifted 11 trophies, including two Champions Leagues, bolstering his standing even in tough times.

  • Recent performance: 3-0 loss to Arsenal in Champions League, four points behind Barcelona in La Liga.
  • Upcoming fixtures: Return leg against Arsenal, Copa del Rey final versus Barcelona, Club World Cup in June.
  • Ancelotti’s record: 188 wins in 260 games this stint, 11 titles won.

CBF’s pursuit: a long-held ambition

The CBF has its heart set on Carlo Ancelotti for Brazil’s national team. Ednaldo Rodrigues has openly praised the Italian, valuing his experience and leadership. This interest dates back to 2023, when the CBF approached Ancelotti before his Real Madrid renewal, only for him to stay put.

Following Dorival Júnior’s exit in March, after a 4-1 loss to Argentina, Brazil’s national team is searching for direction. The CBF believes Ancelotti’s winning pedigree could unify the squad and restore fan confidence. The organization aims to finalize a hire by the next FIFA international break in June, but any deal depends on Real Madrid’s season outcome.

Waiting for Ancelotti carries risks. The CBF has faced backlash for delays in naming coaches, notably after Tite’s departure in 2022. While alternatives like Jorge Jesus, Abel Ferreira, and José Mourinho are on the table, none generate the same excitement as Ancelotti.

Defining moments for Ancelotti

Ancelotti is no stranger to high-pressure situations. At 65, the Italian has managed giants like Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich, building a reputation for resilience. At Real Madrid, his ability to keep the dressing room cohesive is a key asset, even during slumps.

The coming week is pivotal. The Champions League return leg against Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabéu demands a three-goal win to stay alive. Ancelotti remains optimistic, drawing on the club’s history of dramatic comebacks. A La Liga clash with Alavés is also crucial to keep pace in the title race.

Off the pitch, Ancelotti faces additional scrutiny. Allegations of tax fraud in Spain, involving roughly $1.2 million, have led to a four-year prison request from prosecutors. The coach denies wrongdoing and remains focused on his duties.

Camisa Seleção Brasileira
Camisa Seleção Brasileira – Foto: Cassiano Correia / Shutterstock.com

Why Ancelotti is the CBF’s dream

The CBF’s fixation on Ancelotti is easy to grasp. With four Champions Leagues and domestic titles in five countries, he ranks among the world’s elite managers. His adaptable tactics and knack for nurturing young stars like Vinicius Júnior and Rodrygo make him a perfect fit for Brazil’s talent-rich squad.

Ancelotti also has a deep affinity for Brazil. Having coached Brazilian stars like Kaká, Ronaldo, and Casemiro, he frequently praises the country’s footballing heritage. He once called managing Brazil “a great dream,” though he stressed his current commitment to Real Madrid.

  • Ancelotti’s accolades: 4 Champions Leagues, 2 Club World Cups, 5 domestic leagues.
  • Brazilian players coached: Kaká, Ronaldo, Casemiro, Vinicius Júnior, Rodrygo.
  • Management style: Emphasizes team unity, flexible tactics, and youth development.

Brazil’s urgency for a leader

Brazil’s national team is at a crossroads. A humbling loss to Argentina in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers exposed ongoing struggles, leaving the CBF desperate for a coach to rebuild trust. The lack of a permanent manager ahead of the next FIFA window adds pressure on Ednaldo Rodrigues, already criticized for past decisions like appointing Fernando Diniz as interim in 2023.

Brazil boasts stars like Neymar, Vinicius Júnior, and Gabriel Martinelli, but consistency remains elusive. The CBF sees Ancelotti’s global experience as the key to unlocking the team’s potential, with the 2026 Copa América as a chance to lay foundations for the World Cup.

For now, the CBF keeps tabs on other candidates. Jorge Jesus, a Brazilian champion with Flamengo, and Abel Ferreira, a two-time Libertadores winner with Palmeiras, are in the mix. José Mourinho, currently unattached, is another name, but Ancelotti remains the clear favorite.

Key dates ahead

The coming months will shape Ancelotti’s path and Brazil’s plans. Europe’s season is nearing its climax, with matches that could decide the coach’s fate at Real Madrid. The CBF, meanwhile, must balance patience with the need to prepare for 2026.

  • April: Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, Champions League return leg versus Arsenal.
  • May: La Liga title race concludes, with Real Madrid chasing Barcelona.
  • June: Club World Cup begins, CBF’s deadline for naming a coach.

Impact of a potential move

Ancelotti joining Brazil would be historic. The national team has never had a foreign coach at a World Cup, and his arrival would break tradition. Fans, torn between innovation and loyalty to local managers, would watch his every step closely.

At Real Madrid, Ancelotti’s exit would pave the way for fresh faces. Xabi Alonso, thriving at Bayer Leverkusen, is tipped as a leading candidate, bringing a modern approach tied to the club’s roots. The transition would be complex, given Ancelotti’s towering legacy.

The stakes are high for Ancelotti. Each match is a chance to prove he can still guide Real Madrid to glory or to open the door to a new chapter, whether in Spain or Brazil. The CBF holds onto hope that their dream hire becomes reality, but the road depends on results.

Brazil’s expectations

Brazil’s national team is in rebuild mode. After years of underwhelming results, including early World Cup exits, fans demand change. Ancelotti’s arrival could bring stability but would spark debates about the essence of Brazilian football.

Players like Vinicius Júnior, familiar with Ancelotti’s methods, would be central to any project. His ability to blend youth with veterans like Neymar is a major draw. His international experience could also help Brazil reclaim its global stature.

In the short term, the CBF must navigate the interim period. A temporary coach, as seen with Diniz, remains an option, but the focus is on securing Ancelotti if Real Madrid’s season falters.

Ancelotti’s crisis playbook

Ancelotti has weathered storms before, offering clues to his current approach. At Milan from 2001 to 2009, he overcame doubts to win two Champions Leagues. At Chelsea, he clinched the Premier League in 2010 amid scrutiny. His Bayern Munich spell was less successful but showed his grit in tough settings.

At Real Madrid, this isn’t his first rough patch. In 2023, a Champions League loss to Manchester City sparked questions, but Ancelotti bounced back with a strong season, earning a contract extension. That resilience could guide him now, though outcomes will hinge on results.

  • Past recoveries: Milan (2003-2007), Chelsea (2009-2010), Real Madrid (2022-2023).
  • Current challenges: Overturning Arsenal’s lead, winning La Liga, securing Copa del Rey.
  • Contract status: Valid until June 2026, backed by Florentino Pérez.

What’s at stake

Ancelotti’s future rests on Real Madrid’s results. A Champions League exit paired with a Copa del Rey loss could end his tenure, opening a window for the CBF. Conversely, a strong finish would solidify his place and delay Brazil’s hopes.

For Brazil, time is pressing. With the Copa América and World Cup qualifiers nearing, the CBF needs a coach to rally the squad and inspire fans. Ancelotti is the ideal choice, but his availability remains uncertain.

As Real Madrid’s season unfolds, Brazil watches closely. Each game shifts the odds of landing Ancelotti, but one thing is clear: the Italian will remain in the spotlight, whether in Madrid or Rio de Janeiro.

Carlo Ancelotti is navigating turbulent times at Real Madrid. A stinging 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League quarterfinals has fueled criticism of the Italian manager, who has led the Spanish giants since 2021 in his second stint. Despite the rocky patch, Ancelotti retains the backing of the club’s leadership, who stand by him amid mounting challenges. Known for his composure in crises, the coach stressed that his future will only be addressed at season’s end, pointing to the clarity of his contract, which runs until June 2026. Meanwhile, in Brazil, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is closely monitoring developments, with Ancelotti as their top target to take over the national team, left vacant after Dorival Júnior’s departure.

Scrutiny is nothing new for Ancelotti. Across 260 matches in his current Real Madrid tenure, he has secured 188 wins, yet recent stumbles—like the Champions League loss and a four-point gap to Barcelona in La Liga—have reignited debates about his future. An imminent elimination against Arsenal, unless the team overturns the scoreline, could deepen the crisis. Still, Ancelotti keeps a steady tone, emphasizing the club’s support and the need to focus on upcoming fixtures, including the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona and preparations for the Club World Cup.

In Brazil, Ancelotti’s situation sparks hope. The CBF, under president Ednaldo Rodrigues, sees the Italian as the ideal figure to steer the national team into a new era, particularly with the 2026 World Cup looming. The organization reached out to him in 2023, before his contract extension with Real Madrid, but he chose to stay in Spain. Now, with the Brazil job open again, the CBF is biding its time, aware that any move hinges on Real Madrid’s performance in the coming weeks.

Real Madrid’s challenges and support

The 2024-25 season has tested Real Madrid’s resolve. After a strong start, the team struggled to maintain momentum, especially in high-stakes matches. The Arsenal defeat in the Champions League laid bare tactical weaknesses, with critics pointing to a lack of intensity and the underwhelming form of players like Vinicius Júnior, who has managed just six goals in 23 games in 2025. Ancelotti insists the issues are collective, refusing to single out individuals.

Beyond Europe, Real Madrid faces a tight race in La Liga. With eight rounds left, they trail Barcelona by four points, making the title chase a steep climb. The Copa del Rey final in late April offers a shot at redemption but also serves as a critical test for Ancelotti’s future. A win against their archrival could ease tensions, while a loss might amplify calls for change.

Yet, Ancelotti has a staunch ally in club president Florentino Pérez. Pérez has publicly endorsed the manager’s work, citing his knack for navigating storms and delivering silverware. Since 2021, Ancelotti has lifted 11 trophies, including two Champions Leagues, bolstering his standing even in tough times.

  • Recent performance: 3-0 loss to Arsenal in Champions League, four points behind Barcelona in La Liga.
  • Upcoming fixtures: Return leg against Arsenal, Copa del Rey final versus Barcelona, Club World Cup in June.
  • Ancelotti’s record: 188 wins in 260 games this stint, 11 titles won.

CBF’s pursuit: a long-held ambition

The CBF has its heart set on Carlo Ancelotti for Brazil’s national team. Ednaldo Rodrigues has openly praised the Italian, valuing his experience and leadership. This interest dates back to 2023, when the CBF approached Ancelotti before his Real Madrid renewal, only for him to stay put.

Following Dorival Júnior’s exit in March, after a 4-1 loss to Argentina, Brazil’s national team is searching for direction. The CBF believes Ancelotti’s winning pedigree could unify the squad and restore fan confidence. The organization aims to finalize a hire by the next FIFA international break in June, but any deal depends on Real Madrid’s season outcome.

Waiting for Ancelotti carries risks. The CBF has faced backlash for delays in naming coaches, notably after Tite’s departure in 2022. While alternatives like Jorge Jesus, Abel Ferreira, and José Mourinho are on the table, none generate the same excitement as Ancelotti.

Defining moments for Ancelotti

Ancelotti is no stranger to high-pressure situations. At 65, the Italian has managed giants like Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich, building a reputation for resilience. At Real Madrid, his ability to keep the dressing room cohesive is a key asset, even during slumps.

The coming week is pivotal. The Champions League return leg against Arsenal at the Santiago Bernabéu demands a three-goal win to stay alive. Ancelotti remains optimistic, drawing on the club’s history of dramatic comebacks. A La Liga clash with Alavés is also crucial to keep pace in the title race.

Off the pitch, Ancelotti faces additional scrutiny. Allegations of tax fraud in Spain, involving roughly $1.2 million, have led to a four-year prison request from prosecutors. The coach denies wrongdoing and remains focused on his duties.

Camisa Seleção Brasileira
Camisa Seleção Brasileira – Foto: Cassiano Correia / Shutterstock.com

Why Ancelotti is the CBF’s dream

The CBF’s fixation on Ancelotti is easy to grasp. With four Champions Leagues and domestic titles in five countries, he ranks among the world’s elite managers. His adaptable tactics and knack for nurturing young stars like Vinicius Júnior and Rodrygo make him a perfect fit for Brazil’s talent-rich squad.

Ancelotti also has a deep affinity for Brazil. Having coached Brazilian stars like Kaká, Ronaldo, and Casemiro, he frequently praises the country’s footballing heritage. He once called managing Brazil “a great dream,” though he stressed his current commitment to Real Madrid.

  • Ancelotti’s accolades: 4 Champions Leagues, 2 Club World Cups, 5 domestic leagues.
  • Brazilian players coached: Kaká, Ronaldo, Casemiro, Vinicius Júnior, Rodrygo.
  • Management style: Emphasizes team unity, flexible tactics, and youth development.

Brazil’s urgency for a leader

Brazil’s national team is at a crossroads. A humbling loss to Argentina in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers exposed ongoing struggles, leaving the CBF desperate for a coach to rebuild trust. The lack of a permanent manager ahead of the next FIFA window adds pressure on Ednaldo Rodrigues, already criticized for past decisions like appointing Fernando Diniz as interim in 2023.

Brazil boasts stars like Neymar, Vinicius Júnior, and Gabriel Martinelli, but consistency remains elusive. The CBF sees Ancelotti’s global experience as the key to unlocking the team’s potential, with the 2026 Copa América as a chance to lay foundations for the World Cup.

For now, the CBF keeps tabs on other candidates. Jorge Jesus, a Brazilian champion with Flamengo, and Abel Ferreira, a two-time Libertadores winner with Palmeiras, are in the mix. José Mourinho, currently unattached, is another name, but Ancelotti remains the clear favorite.

Key dates ahead

The coming months will shape Ancelotti’s path and Brazil’s plans. Europe’s season is nearing its climax, with matches that could decide the coach’s fate at Real Madrid. The CBF, meanwhile, must balance patience with the need to prepare for 2026.

  • April: Copa del Rey final against Barcelona, Champions League return leg versus Arsenal.
  • May: La Liga title race concludes, with Real Madrid chasing Barcelona.
  • June: Club World Cup begins, CBF’s deadline for naming a coach.

Impact of a potential move

Ancelotti joining Brazil would be historic. The national team has never had a foreign coach at a World Cup, and his arrival would break tradition. Fans, torn between innovation and loyalty to local managers, would watch his every step closely.

At Real Madrid, Ancelotti’s exit would pave the way for fresh faces. Xabi Alonso, thriving at Bayer Leverkusen, is tipped as a leading candidate, bringing a modern approach tied to the club’s roots. The transition would be complex, given Ancelotti’s towering legacy.

The stakes are high for Ancelotti. Each match is a chance to prove he can still guide Real Madrid to glory or to open the door to a new chapter, whether in Spain or Brazil. The CBF holds onto hope that their dream hire becomes reality, but the road depends on results.

Brazil’s expectations

Brazil’s national team is in rebuild mode. After years of underwhelming results, including early World Cup exits, fans demand change. Ancelotti’s arrival could bring stability but would spark debates about the essence of Brazilian football.

Players like Vinicius Júnior, familiar with Ancelotti’s methods, would be central to any project. His ability to blend youth with veterans like Neymar is a major draw. His international experience could also help Brazil reclaim its global stature.

In the short term, the CBF must navigate the interim period. A temporary coach, as seen with Diniz, remains an option, but the focus is on securing Ancelotti if Real Madrid’s season falters.

Ancelotti’s crisis playbook

Ancelotti has weathered storms before, offering clues to his current approach. At Milan from 2001 to 2009, he overcame doubts to win two Champions Leagues. At Chelsea, he clinched the Premier League in 2010 amid scrutiny. His Bayern Munich spell was less successful but showed his grit in tough settings.

At Real Madrid, this isn’t his first rough patch. In 2023, a Champions League loss to Manchester City sparked questions, but Ancelotti bounced back with a strong season, earning a contract extension. That resilience could guide him now, though outcomes will hinge on results.

  • Past recoveries: Milan (2003-2007), Chelsea (2009-2010), Real Madrid (2022-2023).
  • Current challenges: Overturning Arsenal’s lead, winning La Liga, securing Copa del Rey.
  • Contract status: Valid until June 2026, backed by Florentino Pérez.

What’s at stake

Ancelotti’s future rests on Real Madrid’s results. A Champions League exit paired with a Copa del Rey loss could end his tenure, opening a window for the CBF. Conversely, a strong finish would solidify his place and delay Brazil’s hopes.

For Brazil, time is pressing. With the Copa América and World Cup qualifiers nearing, the CBF needs a coach to rally the squad and inspire fans. Ancelotti is the ideal choice, but his availability remains uncertain.

As Real Madrid’s season unfolds, Brazil watches closely. Each game shifts the odds of landing Ancelotti, but one thing is clear: the Italian will remain in the spotlight, whether in Madrid or Rio de Janeiro.

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