Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed he will officially assume his role as head coach of the Brazil national team on May 26, following the conclusion of Real Madrid’s 2024–25 season.
Speaking on Tuesday, the Italian manager reflected on his time at the Spanish club, expressing gratitude to Real Madrid and its supporters while looking ahead to his next chapter.
“I’m gonna coach Brazil from May 26. Like everything in life, things come to an end. I enjoyed my time here,” Ancelotti said. “I will be a Real Madrid fan for the rest of my life. I never thought I’d be coach for six years. I have to thank the club.”
Ancelotti, who rejoined Real Madrid in 2021 for a second spell in charge, leaves having added to his already illustrious managerial legacy. At 65, he will become the first foreign coach to lead Brazil’s men’s national team.
His debut in charge of the Seleção is set for June 6, when Brazil face Ecuador in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. Ancelotti replaces Dorival Júnior, who was relieved of his duties in March after 14 months at the helm.
The veteran coach also took a moment to praise former player and rising managerial talent Xabi Alonso, who has been widely tipped as a potential successor at Real Madrid.
“Xabi Alonso doesn’t need any advice from me as he’s a great manager. He has everything to become a top, top coach,” Ancelotti said.
As he prepares to take on one of international football’s most high-profile jobs, Ancelotti departs Madrid with the enduring respect of fans and the football world alike.
