Carlo Ancelotti Back in the Frame for Brazil National Team Job

Carlo Ancelotti is once again the top choice to become Brazil’s next national team manager, according to sources per ESPN Brasil.

Brazil’s Football Confederation (CBF) sacked coach Dorival Júnior last month and had also considered Al Hilal boss Jorge Jesus as a possible replacement.

Ancelotti, who is under contract with Real Madrid until June 2026, has long been the preferred candidate of CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues. The Italian has been linked with the Brazil job since Tite stepped down after the 2022 World Cup.

Although Ancelotti has said publicly that he wants to stay at Real Madrid, recent pressure has raised doubts about his future — especially after the Spanish club’s heavy 5-1 loss to Arsenal in the Champions League quarterfinals.

Madrid are still in the LaLiga title race but trail leaders Barcelona by four points with five matches remaining. The CBF is keeping a close eye on Saturday’s Copa del Rey final between Madrid and Barcelona, aware that a loss could lead to Ancelotti’s exit.

When asked about his future, Ancelotti said: “There’s nothing to say. We’ll talk about it at the end of the season.”

Reports say that talks have restarted between CBF officials and Ancelotti’s team in recent weeks. An agent and two Brazilian intermediaries are reportedly in Madrid and have held discussions with Ancelotti’s son, Davide, and his representatives. They are also sending regular updates to Brazil.

However, the CBF has denied sending any official representatives to Europe, insisting that only men’s national team coordinator Rodrigo Caetano and president Rodrigues are handling the matter.

Rodrigues also said the technical team is closely watching matches and writing reports to help choose the right coach. His goal is to announce Brazil’s new manager before the next squad is named on 26 May for the June World Cup qualifiers.

Sources also say that Brazilian stars Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo — both of whom play under Ancelotti at Madrid — would support his move to the national team.

While Ancelotti remains the top target, Jorge Jesus has not been ruled out. The former Flamengo coach is currently under contract with Al Hilal until after the FIFA Club World Cup but could leave his post as early as next month to take charge of Brazil.