Brazil step up efforts to appoint Ancelotti after Madrid’s Champions League elimination

Brazil are looking to appoint Carlo Ancelotti following Real Madrid’s elimination from the Champions League last night.

La Selecao need a new manager following Dorival Junior’s sacking and have earmarked Ancelotti as a top target (h/t Marca).

Brazil representative Diego Fernandes watched Madrid’s quarter-final second leg against Arsenal, fuelling speculation over Ancelotti’s future.

Los Blancos suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat to crash out of the competition 5-1 on aggregate.

The Spanish giants’ abysmal performances in both legs have raised questions about Ancelotti’s position.

The Italian tactician, who is contracted until June 2026, offered a tentative answer when asked whether it was his final Champions League game with Madrid.

He said the club may decide to make a change, but will be comfortable with whatever they decide.

Ancelotti’s job hinges on Madrid winning the La Liga and the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona.

Madrid may be ready to move on from the former AC Milan manager, with Jurgen Klopp emerging as one of the top candidates to succeed him.

Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso is another name on Madrid’s wishlist.

Brazil are experiencing one of the toughest periods in their history, marked by underwhelming performances in major tournaments in recent years.

They are keen on roping in a high-profile coach to change their fortunes ahead of the World Cup next year, and Ancelotti is an enticing option.