The Italian could be headed to the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Xabi Alonso reportedly Los Blancos’ No 1 target as his replacement
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is set to leave the club with his most likely destination being the Brazil national team.
Ancelotti’s tenure began to face serious uncertainty after the team’s 5-1 aggregate loss to Arsenal in the Champions League. It is understood that the Brazil Football Confederation (CBF) are keen on appointing him as their national team manager.
Ancelotti, who signed a contrast extension with Madrid until 2026 in December 2023, has openly acknowledged CBF’s interest. However, the Italian made it known that while he was flattered by their approach, his focus remains on Real Madrid and he will not leave unless the board decide that his time is up.
However, the CBF is reported to be intensifying efforts to secure his services. They want Ancelotti to lead the team at the FIFA World Cup in 2026, and want therefore want to have the new coach in place ahead of the June international break, where Brazil play qualifying matches against Ecuador and Paraguay.
Madrid have reportedly highlighted Bayer Leverkusen coach and former club midfielder Xabi Alonso as Ancelotti’s replacement. However, it is unclear whether the former Spain international would want to leave Leverkusen in the summer. Alonso’s contract with Leverkusen runs until 2026.
