The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has earmarked Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti as its preferred candidate to lead the national team at the 2026 World Cup.
Following Brazil’s humiliating 4-1 defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifying on Tuesday, pressure is mounting on current head coach Dorival Junior.
The 62-year-old has won only seven of his 16 games in charge of the five-time world champions.
According to The Athletic, the CBF has restarted discussions with Ancelotti about taking charge of the team at next summer’s tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Madrid are unaware of any official contact between Ancelotti and Brazil’s football authorities, but he has previously been linked with the Brazil job.
He was reportedly close to joining the Selecao before extending his contract with Madrid until 2026.
The new contract was supposed to dispel any speculation about his departure. However, Madrid are unsure about their long-term managerial plans, leaving Ancelotti in limbo.
CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues was re-elected unopposed this week after Ronaldo Luis Nazario de Lima dropped out of the race.
Rodrigues approached Ancelotti twice but was rebuffed by Madrid. Intriguingly, Ronaldo also considered Ancelotti to be the ideal choice for the national team.
Ancelotti enjoys a strong rapport with Madrid’s Brazilian contingent, including Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Eder Militao and Endrick.
His successful tenure at Madrid, which includes ten trophies since returning in 2021, has only reinforced his credentials.
Despite leading Madrid to a La Liga-Champions League double in 2023/24 and remaining on course for a treble this season, speculation persists about who will lead them beyond 2025.
Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso has been linked with the role, with talks reportedly taking place between his representatives and Madrid.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola was another name the rumour mill threw out around a month ago.
For now, Ancelotti remains focused on Madrid’s title challenges, but the story is far from over, with Brazil keen to make a bold managerial move.
