The CBF eyes Carlo Ancelotti once again as doubts swirl around current coach Dorival Junior. Following a devastating 4-1 defeat to Argentina in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on March 26, 2025, pressure is intensifying on Dorival. The Seleção’s slide to fourth in the South American standings has fueled discontent within the CBF, prompting renewed interest in the experienced Italian coach currently at Real Madrid. With the team needing a revival, Ancelotti’s name is back in focus.
Mounting Pressure After Argentina’s Defeat
According to Globo Esporte, the CBF is reassessing its coaching direction after the Seleção’s historic 4-1 loss to Argentina. This qualifier defeat, one of the worst on record, has fans and officials questioning Dorival Junior’s fit. Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior called for a major rethink, adding to the heat on Dorival, who wasn’t the CBF’s first choice post-2022 World Cup.
Ancelotti’s History with Brazil
Carlo Ancelotti has been a CBF target for years. In 2023, president Ednaldo Rodrigues chased the Italian after missing out on Pep Guardiola. Phenomenon Ronaldo revealed Ancelotti had even negotiated to coach Brazil, only for Real Madrid to lock him in until 2026. Still, his pedigree keeps him atop the CBF’s wishlist.
Challenges and Alternatives
Landing Ancelotti is tricky. His Real Madrid contract and the 2025 Club World Cup commitment are big obstacles. Meanwhile, Flamengo’s Filipe Luis, an ex-Atletico Madrid standout, is also in the mix. Yet, Ancelotti’s track record makes him the CBF’s dream hire to restore Brazil’s football prestige.
As the CBF eyes Carlo Ancelotti, the push to revive the Seleção is urgent. With Dorival Junior’s future shaky and the 2026 World Cup approaching, Brazil’s next move is critical. Whether Ancelotti can be pried from Real Madrid will shape the team’s path forward.