Following a defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifying, Brazil might be on the verge of a significant change. Reportedly, the Brazilian Football Confederation has contacted Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid`s current coach, about potentially leading their national team for the 2026 World Cup. Securing Ancelotti would be complex, but Brazil has considered him before. This move might become feasible after the current club season concludes for Real Madrid.
It`s unlikely Ancelotti would join Brazil before the end of the club season. Real Madrid is currently competing in the Champions League quarterfinals and contending for the La Liga title. However, with Brazil`s next competitive matches not until June, when they play Ecuador, a compromise might be possible before Real Madrid participates in the Club World Cup in the United States in June.
Brazil had previously discussed having Ancelotti take over in the summer of 2024 after Tite`s departure. Fernando Diniz was appointed as interim manager while Ancelotti considered his options. Ultimately, Ancelotti extended his contract with Real Madrid until 2026, resolving the uncertainty about his future.
Brazil then replaced Diniz with Dorival Junior, but the national team`s performance hasn`t improved. They`ve failed to win three of their last five games, and the loss to Argentina could be the decisive factor pushing for change if Brazil aims to win the 2026 World Cup in the United States. Ancelotti`s familiarity with Brazilian players like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Eder Militao, and Endrick, who already play for Real Madrid, could be advantageous if he were to coach the team.
Ancelotti`s Suitability
Ancelotti`s ability to create a system where star players can shine while functioning as a cohesive team could address a major issue for Brazil. Despite their abundant talent, Brazil often plays like a collection of individuals rather than a united team. With the World Cup approaching, Brazil needs to act quickly if they want to make a change, as there`s just over a year until the tournament. Ancelotti would need to utilize every international break, especially since Brazil needs to build stronger defensive coordination, which requires players to train together. Only four qualifying matches remain between June 4 and September 14, followed shortly by the World Cup, leaving limited time for friendly matches as preparation.
While the attack might be relatively settled, the composition of the team behind the forward line is uncertain. The team is in a precarious position, and failing to address these issues could lead to another disappointing World Cup.
Possible Replacements for Madrid
If Real Madrid needed a replacement for Ancelotti, Xabi Alonso, who is performing well at Bayer Leverkusen, would be a likely candidate. Despite extending his contract with the German club after winning the Bundesliga in 2023-24, Real Madrid could still pursue him. While Arne Slot is now at Liverpool and Vincent Kompany leads Bayern Munich, Alonso`s history as a Real Madrid player and his early coaching experience with the club’s U-14 team make Madrid the most probable destination if Ancelotti departs.
Alonso`s Champions League experience with Leverkusen this season would make him more prepared for a bigger role compared to last season. He has also navigated challenges such as injuries this season, further preparing him for the next stage of his career. Hiring Alonso would be a risk for Madrid, but replacing a manager like Ancelotti is never easy, and Alonso is among the most qualified for the job.
