Carlo Ancelotti Unveiled as Brazil Head Coach: 'We're Going to Make Brazil Champions Again'

Daily Tribune

5 days ago

TDT | Manama
Carlo Ancelotti has officially taken charge of the Brazil national team, pledging to restore the Seleção to their former glory and lead them to a record-extending sixth World Cup title.
The 65-year-old Italian, who steps into one of the most high-pressure jobs in world football, was introduced at a press conference at the Grand Hyatt in Rio de Janeiro on Monday. Ancelotti, a four-time Champions League-winning manager, said he was 'honoured and proud' to lead what he described as 'the best team in the world.' 'The challenge is great,' he said. 'I've always had a special connection with this team. We're going to work to make Brazil champions again.'
Big Job, Bigger Expectations
Ancelotti takes over from Dorival Junior, who was dismissed in March following a 4–1 defeat to arch-rivals Argentina — a loss that capped off a worrying run of form. Since being knocked out of the 2022 World Cup by Croatia on penalties, Brazil have struggled for consistency, losing five of their last 14 matches and conceding 16 goals.
Despite sitting fourth in the South American qualifiers — a position still within the six automatic World Cup spots — the pressure is mounting. With Copa America on the horizon and the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico fast approaching, Ancelotti knows he has little time to waste. 'These two matches [against Ecuador and Paraguay] are very important,' he said. 'I've tried to bring in players who are ready and prepared to help the team win.'
Ancelotti's First Squad
The newly appointed boss has wasted no time in stamping his mark on the team. His first squad, announced this week, includes a blend of experience and fresh talent: Goalkeepers: Alisson (Liverpool), Bento (Athletico Paranaense), Hugo Souza (Chaves)
Defenders: Alex Sandro (Juventus), Alexsandro (Santos), Lucas Beraldo (PSG), Carlos Augusto (Inter Milan), Danilo (Juventus), Leo Ortiz (Red Bull Bragantino), Vanderson (Monaco), Wesley (Cruzeiro), Marquinhos (PSG)
Midfielders: Andreas Pereira (Fulham), Andrey Santos (Strasbourg), Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle), Casemiro (Manchester United), Ederson (Atalanta), Gerson (Flamengo)
Forwards: Antony (Manchester United), Estevão (Palmeiras), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Matheus Cunha (Wolves), Raphinha (Barcelona), Richarlison (Tottenham), Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid)
There is room for veterans like Alisson and Casemiro, but also exciting young talents such as Estevão and Andrey Santos — a sign that Ancelotti is planning for both the short and long term.
Backed by Legends
The Italian tactician was welcomed by Luiz Felipe Scolari, the man who led Brazil to their fifth World Cup title in 2002. Scolari's presence was symbolic — a passing of the torch, perhaps — and a reminder of the expectation that comes with managing the Seleção.
Ancelotti has previously worked with Brazilian stars at club level, including Kaka, Ronaldo, and most recently Vinicius Jr. at Real Madrid. That connection may help him earn trust within a passionate and often demanding footballing nation.
Winning the Crowd
The new coach was candid about the pressure that comes with the role, acknowledging Brazil's deep desire for international success. 'People want me to do a good job and win the World Cup again,' he said. 'Because of what I've done in the past, they expect me to win the trophy. But I hope they will support the team — that's very important.'
Brazil's next step begins in June with a pair of critical World Cup qualifiers. For Ancelotti, it's more than just a new chapter — it's a mission. And if history is any guide, the man who has conquered Europe's top leagues may just be the one to return Brazil to the summit of world football.