Ancelotti Begins Brazil Journey, Leaves Neymar Out of Squad, Aims for World Cup Glory
RIO DE JANEIRO — Legendary Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti has officially taken over as manager of the Brazilian national football team, vowing to restore the Selecao’s glory and lead the squad to a sixth World Cup title.
Unveiled in a formal ceremony in Rio de Janeiro on May 26, 2025, Ancelotti becomes the first foreign coach in six decades to lead Brazil — and he’s already making headlines with bold decisions and high expectations.
“I’m very proud to lead the best team in the world. The only goal is to win the 2026 World Cup,” Ancelotti said during his presentation.
At 65, and with a record five UEFA Champions League titles, Ancelotti steps into international management for the first time. He replaces Dorival Junior, who was dismissed in March after Brazil’s devastating 4-1 loss to Argentina in the World Cup qualifiers.
Neymar Out, Casemiro Returns
One of Ancelotti’s first major moves was to exclude Neymar from the squad for the June qualifiers due to his prolonged injury layoff. However, he left the door open for a future return:
“Obviously, we’re counting on him,” Ancelotti said of the 33-year-old star.
Instead, he has recalled Casemiro, also 33, praising the veteran midfielder’s leadership, charisma, and talent. The squad also includes Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid) and Raphinha (Barcelona) for Brazil’s upcoming clashes.
Upcoming Matches and Challenges
Ancelotti’s Brazil will debut on:
- June 5 vs Ecuador in Guayaquil
- June 10 vs Paraguay in São Paulo
Brazil currently sits fourth in the CONMEBOL qualifying table for the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
A New Chapter for Brazil and the CBF
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) spent two years courting Ancelotti, hoping to reignite the team’s competitive edge after repeated disappointments on the world stage.
The Selecao has reached only one semi-final in the last five World Cups — the infamous 7-1 loss to Germany in 2014 still haunts fans.
Ancelotti arrives as the CBF undergoes its own changes, including the recent election of new president Samir Xaud, following a court-ordered dismissal of Ednaldo Rodrigues.
Xaud welcomed Ancelotti with a symbolic message:
“May Christ the Redeemer bless Mr. Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival, so that he can secure our sixth world title.”
A Lucrative Deal and Family Ties
According to local media, Ancelotti’s contract is worth €10 million ($11.4 million) annually. His son Davide Ancelotti will also serve as part of his technical team.
