Brazil return for Carlo Ancelotti! Argentina humiliation prompts federation to reopen talks with legendary Real Madrid manager ahead of 2026 World Cup

Brazil's disappointing 4-1 defeat against Argentina in Buenos Aires has intensified scrutiny on Dorival Junior's tenure as head coach, especially with the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico just over a year away. Following Tite’s departure after Brazil’s quarter-final exit against Croatia in the 2022 World Cup, he has been the third coach to lead the team, and the 62-year-old is now being tipped to depart as well if he fails to turn around the team's fortunes, according to GeGolobo.

CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues, recently re-elected, had previously identified Ancelotti as his top managerial target in 2023, with Pep Guardiola also considered before he extended his contract with Manchester City. However, the Italian has indicated that any discussions would only advance after the Club World Cup, which Real Madrid will participate in between June and July in the USA.

Ancelotti remains under contract with Real Madrid until 2026, and if he secures major silverware, such as La Liga or the Champions League, club president Florentino Perez is expected to keep him at the helm. The Italian has previously stated that he would never willingly leave Madrid, but should the club end the season without major trophies, Brazil may see an opportunity to lure him away.

With Ancelotti’s availability uncertain, the CBF is also weighing other potential options. Among the names being considered is Filipe Luis, the former Atletico Madrid defender and current Flamengo head coach.

Brazil have their next set of World Cup qualifiers in early June, playing Ecuador away and Paraguay at home. The CBF must now determine whether to keep Dorival Junior until then or appoint an interim coach while negotiations with Ancelotti continue behind the scenes.