After months of speculation and negotiations, Brazil have confirmed the appointment of Italian manager Carlo Ancelotti as their new head coach, marking a significant moment in international football. The 65-year-old will lead the five-time world champions through to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ancelotti, one of the most successful managers in the history of the game, is expected to officially take charge in June and will be in the dugout for Brazil’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Peru and Ecuador. His arrival ends a long-running pursuit by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), who first expressed their desire to hire him following Brazil’s quarter-final exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
In addition to footballing responsibilities, Ancelotti will receive a financial package befitting his reputation. The veteran coach is set to earn a reported $700,000 per month (around £560,000), making him the highest-paid national team coach in history. Over a year, this translates to nearly £6.7 million.
Furthermore, should he guide Brazil to a sixth World Cup title in 2026, Ancelotti is in line for a performance bonus worth $5.5 million (over £4.4 million). The CBF is also covering luxury accommodation in Rio de Janeiro, access to a private jet for travel to and from Europe, and full international health and life insurance – a package that reflects both the scale of Brazil’s ambition and their determination to land their top managerial target.
Ancelotti is expected to arrive in Rio on 26 May to begin his duties and unveil his first Brazil squad. That announcement will likely mark the start of a new chapter for the Seleção, who have not lifted the World Cup since 2002.
With a wealth of experience across Europe’s top leagues and a trophy cabinet to match, all eyes will now be on whether Ancelotti can blend Brazil’s traditional flair with his renowned tactical discipline—and finally restore the country to the summit of world football.