Carlo Ancelotti is poised for a stunning move to international soccer, as reports confirm he has reached a verbal agreement with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) to become the next head coach of the Brazil national team. The Italian manager is expected to leave Real Madrid at the conclusion of the 2024–25 season to take up the prestigious role ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Ancelotti’s anticipated contract with Brazil is set to run through the 2026 tournament, with the possibility of an extension to 2030. The deal reportedly includes a record-breaking salary, potentially making him the highest-paid national team coach in the world. It marks a major coup for the CBF, who have been pursuing Ancelotti since the departure of Tite after Brazil’s 2022 World Cup disappointment.

The timing of Ancelotti’s decision comes as Real Madrid’s season has faltered in recent weeks. Madrid were eliminated from the Champions League by Arsenal and lost the Copa del Rey final to Barcelona, intensifying speculation about the Italian’s future at the Bernabéu. Despite having a contract until 2026 with the Spanish giants, the allure of leading Brazil the most successful national team in World Cup history appears too great to resist.

Ancelotti is expected to officially begin his duties in June 2025, starting with Brazil’s World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay. His appointment will be historic, marking the first time since 1965 that Brazil has hired a foreign manager to lead their senior national team.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, are already making contingency plans. Former midfielder and current Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso is widely regarded as the leading candidate to replace Ancelotti. Alonso's stock has risen sharply after guiding Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title, and he is viewed as a natural successor given his connection to Madrid’s playing and coaching philosophy.

Ancelotti’s move to Brazil represents a new chapter in his illustrious career, adding international management to a résumé that already boasts major titles in Italy, England, France, Germany, and Spain. With a squad filled with emerging stars such as Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo two players he currently manages at Madrid Ancelotti will have the opportunity to guide Brazil in their quest for a sixth World Cup crown.