Carlo Ancelotti to Coach Brazil National Team Amid Real Madrid Exit
As Ancelotti's future hangs in the balance, the Brazilian national team and Saudi Arabia await his decision, with the Italian coach weighing his options carefully. The outcome of the meeting between Ancelotti and Pérez will determine the next step in his coaching career, with the world watching to see where he will end up next.
Carlo Ancelotti is set to leave Real Madrid after a meeting with the club's president, Florentino Pérez, to discuss his future, with the Italian coach expected to take over as the new coach of the Brazil national team, according to Spanish media reports. Ancelotti's contract with Real Madrid still has one year left, but the club is willing to let him go after a difficult season. Brazil has been searching for a new coach since sacking Dorival Junior in March and is currently fourth in the South American qualifying table for the 2026 World Cup.
Ancelotti has had a successful stint at Real Madrid, leading the team to a Champions League and La Liga double last season. He has also had a long coaching history with other top clubs, including AC Milan, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain. However, his potential departure to coach the Brazilian national team has been blocked by Real Madrid, with the club refusing to pay Ancelotti his remaining salary, estimated at 10 million euros. The Italian coach had a verbal agreement with the Brazilian federation, but the issue of his salary has caused a rift between the two parties.
Additionally, Ancelotti has reportedly turned down the Brazilian national team job due to difficulties in living in Brazil. He has also been offered a 50 million euro annual contract from Saudi Arabia, which could be a more lucrative option for the Italian coach. Despite this, Ancelotti is still expected to leave Real Madrid, with the club set to announce his departure in the coming hours. The meeting between Ancelotti and Pérez is seen as a "gentlemen's agreement" to settle Ancelotti's salary for the 2025-2026 season, allowing him to leave the club on good terms.
The departure of Ancelotti would pave the way for Xabi Alonso to potentially join the club as the new coach. Real Madrid has experienced irregular sports results this season, and Ancelotti's wear and tear have been cited as factors in his departure. The Italian coach is the most decorated coach in Real Madrid's history, and his departure would mark the end of an era for the club.