A whirlwind of news surrounds the future of both Real Madrid and the Brazilian national team. Just hours ago, Carlo Ancelotti had a practically finalized agreement to manage the CONMEBOL squad. However, the operation now appears to be hanging by a thread, with the CBF (Brazilian Soccer Confederation) already looking at alternative candidates as they approach the World Cup 2026 qualifying matches in June. A European coach and familiar faces from the South American soccer scene are gaining traction.
Ancelotti was reportedly in London, meeting with directors representing Brazil to finalize a deal that had seemed like an open secret. However, Real Madrid is currently not giving the green light for the Italian to join the CBF for the June qualifying window, ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup. Brazilian news outlets now suggest that only a complete U-turn can salvage the situation. If it doesn’t, three names are leading the list of potential replacements to guide the Verdeamarelha.
Alternative candidates emerge
Jorge Jesus, Abel Ferreira, and Filipe Luis. These are the three names gaining the most momentum following the latest issues surrounding Carlo Ancelotti. All three are currently employed and have existing contracts, which would need to be resolved with a financial settlement from the CBF. Jesus, currently managing Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, is a leading candidate given his knowledge of Brazilian soccer, having won the Copa Libertadores in 2019 with Flamengo.
Brazil’s displeasure and Real Madrid’s stance
There is significant frustration in Brazil regarding Ancelotti’s situation. His appointment was practically confirmed before Real Madrid reportedly backtracked, displeased with not having a leading role in the negotiation. Reports indicate that Ancelotti might even manage Real Madrid at the Club World Cup while they await a new coach for the following season.
These are the first names surfacing as potential replacements for Ancelotti in Brazil’s coaching search. Other prominent figures, like Jürgen Klopp, were mentioned in recent weeks before the situation escalated in Madrid. Remember, the nation with the most World Cup titles will face Ecuador on June 4th in Guayaquil, followed by a match against Paraguay five days later, before the qualifiers resume in September.
Leverkusen eyes replacements
German media suggests that Xabi Alonso might take over Real Madrid next season. Leverkusen is preparing for potential replacements, awaiting the outcome of Ancelotti’s situation. Xavi Hernández, Erik Ten Hag, and Imanol Alguacil are the leading candidates to potentially take over the reigning Bundesliga champions. Everything is expected to accelerate in the coming weeks, depending on what happens at the Santiago Bernabéu with Carletto.
The situation surrounding the Brazilian national team is far from straightforward. Brazil had planned to announce Ancelotti’s first squad list on May 26th. Currently, not only is it uncertain who will coach against Ecuador and Paraguay, but also the circumstances of Ancelotti’s departure from Real Madrid, where they are vying for the league title against Barcelona in the next four weeks, are unclear. The soap opera surrounding the Brazilian national team continues.
