Carlo Ancelotti, the Real Madrid coach, will depart from the club at the end of the season to manage the Brazil national team. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) made the announcement on Monday, confirming Ancelotti as Brazil’s first foreign coach. Taking over the reins, Ancelotti, aged 65, will guide Brazil until the 2026 World Cup. His immediate focus includes coaching the team in the upcoming qualifying matches against Ecuador and Paraguay next month.

The CBF released a statement highlighting the significance of the appointment: "The greatest national team in the history of football will now be led by the most successful coach in the world." Simultaneously, Xabi Alonso is expected to step in as the new Real Madrid boss, a move confirmed after his departure from Bayer Leverkusen.

Ancelotti's transition involves him leaving Real Madrid later this month, officially taking up his role with the Brazilian federation starting May 26. His concluding match with Madrid is scheduled at home against Real Sociedad, marking the end of the La Liga season. Ancelotti's second tenure at the Bernabeu is celebrated with numerous accolades, including two Champions League titles and two Spanish titles.

Despite having a year remaining on his contract, Real Madrid's chiefs agreed to the departure following a season overshadowed by rivals Barcelona. Barcelona's dominance was evident, particularly after their 4-3 victory, which solidified Hansi Flick's team’s position to clinch the league title. Real Madrid trails Barcelona by seven points with only three games left, suffering four defeats to Barca this season, two of which were in domestic cup finals.

The arrangement was brokered by Brazilian businessman Diego Fernandes on behalf of the CBF after prolonged speculation. Ancelotti succeeds Dorival Junior, who was sacked in March amidst their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. His debut match with Brazil will be against Ecuador on June 6.

CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues emphasized the importance of Ancelotti’s appointment, stating, “Bringing Carlo Ancelotti to lead Brazil is more than a strategic move. It is a statement to the world that we are determined to reclaim the top spot on the podium. He is the greatest coach in history and, now, he is at the helm of the greatest national team on the planet. Together, we will write new glorious chapters in Brazilian football.”

Potential scenarios, such as Real losing at home to Mallorca or Barcelona winning against Espanyol, would confirm Barcelona's title.