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Parshva Shah

Carlo Ancelotti has eye on delivering World Cup dream to Brazil in 'exciting' challenge for ex-Real Madrid coach

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has set his sights on achieving "what every Brazilian dreams of: winning the World Cup after 24 years." The Italian manager spoke about next year's tournament and explained the reasons behind accepting such a high-profile international job. Ancelotti spent four years at Real Madrid before calling curtains on his chapter in Spain at the end of last season.

  • Ancelotti leading Brazil's next generation

    Brazil have ushered into a new era with Ancelotti at the helm. The veteran manager delivered 11 titles during his second spell at Real Madrid, which lasted for four years between 2021 and 2025. However, after failing to lift major silverware in the 2024-25 season, he opted to join the Brazil national team on a one-year contract that expires after next year's World Cup. His first four months in charge have been promising, if not spectacular. Brazil have won three games, drawn once, and lost thrice under Ancelotti so far. 

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    Ancelotti wants to end Brazil's 24-year barren World Cup run

    Speaking in an interview with FIFA, Ancelotti spoke about his ambition to guide Brazil to World Cup glory next year. "The same thing we always hope for!", said Ancelotti when asked what he is hoping for from the Brazilian faithful at the World Cup. "They’ll show us great support. I think it’s our responsibility, in the Selecao, to give Brazilians what they want: to win the World Cup for the first time in 24 years."

  • Ancelotti joined Brazil national team because it was 'exciting'

    Asked why he accepted the offer to take over the South American side, he added: "Because I thought that managing the Brazilian national team – the most successful national team in history, with more World Cup trophies than any other nation – would be a great opportunity. 

    "The thought of coaching the Brazil team was exciting. The opportunity came up and I went for it. I also have to thank Real Madrid, of course, for allowing me the chance to enjoy this new experience.

    I already knew about the passion here, but it is on another level, especially when it comes to the national team. The people have a deep love for that Brazil shirt. When Brazil play, the country comes to a standstill. Everyone is focused on the match. It will come as no surprise, but Brazilian players are generally very talented. It seems to be in their DNA."

    He added: "Everything has gone well so far. We’ve already qualified, so we have the time we need to prepare well for the FIFA World Cup. I’ve been really enjoying this spell. Living in Rio is, as they say in Portuguese, ‘muito bonito’."

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    Could Ancelotti stay with Brazil until the 2030 World Cup?

    In an interview with ESPN last month, the five-time Champions League-winning coach kept doors open to a renewal with Brazil, stating that it would be "nice" to remain in charge until the 2030 World Cup. 

    "Yes, I wanted to coach the Brazilian national team (since 2023)," he claimed. "Preparing for the World Cup for Brazil is something special. I signed a one-year contract. After the World Cup, everything is open. I think it was right at that time to sign a one-year contract. I have no problem if the Brazilian Football Federation wants to continue. There's no problem. As I said, I'm very happy here, my family is happy too. We can think about it. We have time to talk about it, I have no problem continuing. It would be nice [to stay until 2030]."