The weeks ahead could shape the immediate future of Carlo Ancelotti’s legendary managerial career. With Real Madrid still chasing silverware and Brazil pushing for clarity, the 65-year-old tactician finds himself at the center of a high-stakes standoff. The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) has issued a firm ultimatum, demanding an answer to their offer — and they won’t wait until Madrid’s season runs its course. But what Ancelotti ultimately decides could change the course of two soccer giants.
According to Sport, the CBF has told Ancelotti that a decision must be made shortly after the Copa del Rey final on April 26, which is to be played against arch-rivals Barcelona. The final will not only shape Madrid’s season but could also play a decisive role in determining Ancelotti’s future in the Spanish capital.
“They want clarity. Brazil no longer intend to wait until the end of Madrid’s long campaign,” the outlet reported, adding that the CBF will “turn to domestic alternatives” if the Italian boss delays a response.
Their urgency is understandable. Brazil is in search of a new head coach following the departure of Dorival Junior, and Ancelotti has long been their preferred choice. His reputation for winning, his cool-headed leadership, and his player-first philosophy made him an ideal candidate to lead the Seleção into a new era. But while Brazil waits, Madrid’s season teeters on a knife’s edge.
Madrid’s changing landscape
Real Madrid’s shock elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Arsenal has intensified the pressure on Ancelotti. It’s a defeat that has already triggered speculation about a changing of the guard at the Bernabeu.
While nothing has been confirmed, club insiders have made it clear that change is coming. Xabi Alonso, a former Madrid midfielder and current manager of Bayer Leverkusen, is viewed as the leading candidate to succeed Ancelotti. If an early exit is agreed upon, Santiago Solari, now part of Madrid’s technical setup, could step in on an interim basis — particularly for the 2025 Club World Cup in June and July. But amid all this uncertainty, Ancelotti hasn’t wavered.
What is Ancelotti’s reported decision?
Apparently, Marca says that Ancelotti’s stance is firm and unwavering. “He has said it many times, and he is ready to say it again — his one and only priority is to remain as manager of Real Madrid.” Even as Brazil’s representatives hover — including businessman Diego Fernandes, who was spotted at the Bernabeu during the Arsenal loss — Ancelotti has left no room for interpretation.
“He feels strong, capable, and fully motivated to continue leading Los Blancos,” the report continues. “Neither Brazil nor any other offer is in his plans.” The Italian is under contract with Real Madrid until 2026, and for now, he fully intends to honor it. His bond with the club runs deep, shaped by two separate managerial spells and multiple Champions League and La Liga titles.
