Carlo Ancelotti has officially confirmed that he will take over as head coach of the Brazil national team on May 26, following the end of Real Madrid’s season.
Speaking on Tuesday, the veteran Italian manager reflected on his time at the Spanish club and offered high praise for former midfielder and current Bayer Leverkusen coach, Xabi Alonso.
“Xabi Alonso doesn’t need any advice from me — he’s already a great manager. He has everything it takes to be among the best,” Ancelotti said.
Ancelotti, who returned to Real Madrid in 2021 for a second stint, expressed gratitude to the club and its supporters as he announced his departure.
“I’ll start coaching Brazil on May 26. Like everything in life, things come to an end. I’ve really enjoyed my time here,” he said. “I will always be a Real Madrid fan. I never imagined I’d coach this club for six years. I have to thank them.”
At 65, Ancelotti will make history as the first foreign manager to lead Brazil’s men’s national team. He is set to kick off Brazil’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, with his first competitive match scheduled against Ecuador on June 6.
His appointment comes after the dismissal of Dorival Junior in March, who had been in charge for just over a year.