Carlo Ancelotti is set to leave Real Madrid for the second time, making his mark as the most decorated manager in Champions League history. The Italian, who returned to Madrid in 2021 after a spell at Everton, has had a tremendously successful second tenure at the club, winning multiple trophies, including two Champions League titles (2022, 2024) and his first La Liga title in 2022.
Ancelotti’s return to Madrid was initially viewed as a steadying force following Zinedine Zidane’s departure. His achievements exceeded expectations, as he led Los Blancos to a La Liga-Champions League double and a record-breaking fourth Champions League title as a manager. However, despite continued success, Madrid’s recent struggles in domestic and European competitions have signaled the end of his tenure.
In a surprising announcement on Monday, it was revealed that Ancelotti will become the first foreign coach to manage the Brazil national team since 1965. Brazil’s football federation (CBF) had initially struggled to secure his departure from Madrid, but with the national team faltering in World Cup qualifying, the opportunity arose for Ancelotti to take over. He will start his role on May 26, ahead of crucial qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay in June.
Ancelotti’s journey in football management has been unparalleled, with triumphs at clubs like AC Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid. His success has made him one of the most revered figures in the sport, and his next challenge will be to restore Brazil to the pinnacle of international football.
With players like Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes flourishing under his guidance at Real Madrid, Ancelotti’s move to Brazil is expected to make an immediate impact. The CBF is hopeful that his leadership will help guide the Selecao back to the top of world football, a position they’ve struggled to maintain in recent years.
