While fans were still reeling from Real Madrid’s dramatic El Clasico loss, another major headline quietly stole attention: Carlo Ancelotti has been confirmed as Brazil’s new manager.
But rather than being thrilled by the big reveal, the legendary coach seemed caught off guard—and slightly irritated—by how it all played out.
Brazil Makes It Official, But Ancelotti Isn’t Exactly Smiling
On Monday, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced that the 65-year-old Italian would take charge of the national team beginning May 26, right after the LaLiga season ends.
Ancelotti still has one year left on his contract with Real Madrid, making the timing of the announcement feel awkward—not just for the club, but clearly for the coach himself.
The CBF thanked Real Madrid and its president Florentino Perez for allowing the transition, painting it as a respectful and cooperative move.
But for Ancelotti, the public reveal felt premature.
“It Would’ve Been a Great Day—If Not for This”
During a press conference on Tuesday, Ancelotti didn’t hide his discomfort.
“If I didn’t have this press conference today, it would’ve been a fantastic day,” he said candidly.
“But now I have to explain things I don’t want to explain.”
He made it clear that his focus remains on Real Madrid until the very last moment.
“Until the 25th, I wear the Real Madrid shirt, which I respect very much,” he added, firmly shutting down questions about his future before the current season ends.
Madrid Keeps Quiet as Ancelotti Prepares to Exit
Interestingly, Real Madrid hasn’t yet issued a formal statement about Ancelotti’s departure.
Rumors suggest that Xabi Alonso—currently with Bayer Leverkusen—might step in, but nothing is official.
Ancelotti, ever the diplomat, said, “Real Madrid will release the statement when they want.
There’s no problem whatsoever. They’ll do it at the appropriate time.”
This will mark the end of Ancelotti’s second stint in Madrid, one that’s added 11 more trophies to his legendary collection, including two LaLiga titles and two Champions League wins.
A Rough Ending to a Trophy-Laden Era
Despite his glittering achievements, this season hasn’t gone as planned for Ancelotti.
Real Madrid suffered a string of high-profile losses, including a 5-1 Champions League quarter-final thrashing by Arsenal, as well as defeats to Barcelona in both the Super Cup and Copa del Rey.
Their 4-3 El Clasico loss over the weekend effectively ended their LaLiga title hopes, leaving them seven points behind Barcelona with only three matches left.
Ancelotti’s final games now seem more about formality than a shot at silverware.
Brazil Welcomes a Foreign Manager for the First Time Ever
Regardless of the tension around the announcement, Brazil is celebrating a historic moment.
Ancelotti will be the first foreign manager in the long and storied history of the Selecao.
The CBF praised him as “the most successful manager in football history” and expressed excitement for a “new era of success.”
They also highlighted his role in preparing Brazil for their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, which begins in June.
Brazil Looks to Bounce Back Under New Leadership
The timing of Ancelotti’s arrival comes as Brazil finds itself in a shaky position.
The national team currently sits fourth in the South American qualifying table—behind Argentina, Ecuador, and Uruguay—and hasn’t won the World Cup since 2002.
After a rocky 14-month spell under Dorival Junior, fans are hoping that Ancelotti’s calm leadership and tactical genius will breathe new life into the squad.
Looking Ahead to May 26
So, what’s next? Ancelotti will continue to lead Real Madrid through the remainder of the LaLiga season before stepping into a role unlike any he’s had before.
And though he’s keeping quiet now, all eyes will be on Brazil and its newest coach when May 26 finally arrives.
One thing is certain—Carlo Ancelotti’s journey with Brazil begins with tension, history, and enormous expectations.