World Cup: Brazil Renews Interest in Carlo Ancelotti Amid Coaching Crisis

Breaking: The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has reportedly renewed its pursuit of Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti following Brazil’s disappointing 4-1 defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifying, with hopes of securing him for the 2026 World Cup campaign.

Brazil’s Coaching Conundrum

The Brazilian football federation has reportedly renewed its interest in Carlo Ancelotti and would like the Italian to be in charge for the 2026 World Cup following Brazil’s embarrassing 4-1 defeat by bitter rivals Argentina in World Cup qualifying.

The result left Brazil in fourth place in CONMEBOL qualifying, with the first six teams qualifying automatically for the tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. This poor performance has increased pressure on current coach Dorival Junior.

“He will be here, you can be sure,” said CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues about Ancelotti in 2023.

History of Brazil’s Pursuit

Key Events in Brazil’s Ancelotti Chase:

2023: CBF first approaches Ancelotti, prepared to make him Brazil’s first foreign coach
June 2023: CBF president publicly announces Ancelotti’s expected arrival
2023-24: Fernando Diniz appointed as interim coach after Ancelotti stays at Madrid
2024: Dorival Junior takes permanent role after Ancelotti renews with Madrid
November 2024: Brazil renews interest following poor qualifying results

According to The Athletic, the federation has again been in touch with the Italian as pressure mounts on incumbent Dorival Junior. The report also says Madrid claimed to be unaware of contact between their manager and the CBF.

Ronaldo’s Revelation

Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario recently confirmed that the Selecao’s 2023 pursuit of Ancelotti was serious, telling Charla Podcast:

“It was not a fantasy because I helped in the process by talking to Carlo, but he was not released. Real Madrid did not release him. After negotiating everything got stuck because he didn’t have Real Madrid’s release.”

Ronaldo revealed that only Ancelotti’s Champions League success with Real Madrid in 2023 prevented the move:

“If he hadn’t won anything, Real Madrid would have fired him and Ancelotti would have come, but he won the Champions League and stayed for another year.”

Current Situation

With Brazil struggling in World Cup qualifying and Ancelotti’s contract at Real Madrid running until 2026, the CBF faces several obstacles:

Ancelotti’s current commitment to Real Madrid
The financial implications of any potential buyout
The timing with 2026 World Cup preparations
Potential resistance from Brazilian football traditionalists

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Why is Brazil interested in Carlo Ancelotti?

Brazil sees Ancelotti as a world-class manager who could bring tactical sophistication and experience to their national team, especially after disappointing recent results.

2. Has Brazil ever had a foreign coach before?

No, Ancelotti would be the first foreign head coach in Brazil’s football history if appointed.

3. What’s Ancelotti’s current contract situation?

He’s under contract with Real Madrid until June 2026, which complicates any potential move.

4. How are Brazil doing in World Cup qualifying?

After the loss to Argentina, Brazil sits fourth in CONMEBOL qualifying, though the top six teams qualify automatically.

5. When might Ancelotti take over if a deal is reached?

This remains unclear, as it would depend on negotiations with Real Madrid and the terms of any agreement.

Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Brazilian Football

Brazil’s renewed pursuit of Carlo Ancelotti represents more than just a coaching change – it signals a potential paradigm shift for the five-time World Cup winners. The possible appointment of their first foreign manager comes at a critical juncture, with the team showing uncharacteristic vulnerability in recent competitions.

While the challenges of prying Ancelotti from Real Madrid remain significant, the very fact that Brazil is considering breaking with 110 years of tradition demonstrates how seriously they view their current predicament. Whether this bold move materializes or not, it underscores Brazil’s determination to reclaim their position as international football’s dominant force ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

As the situation develops, football fans worldwide will be watching closely to see if one of the game’s most decorated managers will take on one of its most prestigious jobs.

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