Brazil has appointed Carlo Ancelotti as the new head coach, effective May 26, taking over from Dorival Junior.

Carlo Ancelotti is set to take the reins as the new head coach of the Brazil national team, starting from May 26. This marks a significant milestone as Ancelotti will become the first foreign coach to lead the illustrious Brazilian side.

The Italian tactician steps in to replace Dorival Junior, who parted ways with the team in March following a disheartening 4-1 defeat to Argentina, which stands as Brazil’s heaviest loss in a World Cup qualifier.

Negotiations with Ancelotti’s representatives reportedly commenced towards the end of April, culminating in a deal that has now been finalised. His first match in charge will be against Ecuador in a World Cup qualifier on June 6.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) released a statement hailing Ancelotti as “a legend of the game as the most successful manager in football history.” They described this appointment as a historic moment, bringing together two icons: the five-time FIFA World Cup champions and a coach with an unparalleled record in Europe’s top competitions.

The CBF expressed its gratitude to Real Madrid and president Florentino Perez for their cooperation in facilitating Ancelotti’s release from his contract, allowing this new chapter to unfold with mutual respect. They also acknowledged Diego Fernandes for his role in negotiating the agreement with Ancelotti and Real Madrid.

Ancelotti’s future at the Bernabeu had been uncertain for several weeks, following a disappointing season that saw Real Madrid exit the UEFA Champions League in the quarter-finals at the hands of Arsenal. Additionally, they find themselves trailing seven points behind Barcelona in the La Liga title race after a dramatic 4-3 defeat to their rivals on Sunday.

In the wake of Ancelotti’s departure, it is widely reported that former Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso is poised to take over as head coach. Alonso has announced his intention to leave his position at Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season, having led the club to their first Bundesliga title in 2024.