Carlo Ancelotti was unveiled as Brazil’s new head coach on Monday, declaring that his primary goal is to guide the national team to its sixth World Cup title, ending a 24-year gap since their last triumph. The Italian manager made the announcement at a press conference in Rio de Janeiro, just two days after concluding his successful tenure at Real Madrid, where he secured 15 trophies over two terms.
“It’s an honor to be the manager of the best national team in the world,” said the 65-year-old. “I have no doubt about what is expected of me. The objective is to win the World Cup next year and help Brazil return to the top. I’m excited about this opportunity.”
Ancelotti takes over from Dorival Junior, who was dismissed following Brazil’s 4-1 loss to Argentina in a World Cup qualifying match in Buenos Aires. The renowned manager expressed his attraction to the role, citing Brazil’s rich footballing heritage and his long-standing connection with the country. “My relationship with Brazil began in the 1980s, playing alongside Falcão and (Toninho) Cerezo at Roma,” he noted, reflecting on his extensive experience with Brazilian players throughout his coaching career.
The upcoming World Cup qualifiers loom large, with Brazil set to face Ecuador away on June 5 and Paraguay at home five days later. Currently, Brazil ranks fourth in the 10-team South American qualifying standings, with four matches left to play. The top six teams will earn automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, while the seventh-place team will enter an intercontinental playoff.
Ancelotti announced a squad featuring notable inclusions such as Manchester United midfielder Casemiro, Tottenham’s Richarlison, and Antony from Real Betis. However, star forward Neymar has been left out as he works to regain his form and fitness following a significant knee injury. “I’ve selected players in good physical shape,” Ancelotti explained. “Neymar has recently returned from injury. He remains crucial to our plans.”
The coach reassured fans about Neymar’s future, saying that he is still counted among Brazil’s talented roster. “He is just one of several unavailable players. We trust in him and hope he regains his best form ahead of the World Cup,” he added, mentioning that he communicated with Neymar about his omission and that the player understands the decision.
When questioned if Brazil would adopt the same attacking style that characterized his Real Madrid teams, Ancelotti was cautious. “After 40 years as a manager, I’m still not sure what the best strategy to win is. But I know that our system must suit the players’ characteristics, ensuring they feel comfortable and confident on the pitch,” he said.
Ancelotti aims to capitalize on the vast talent within the Brazilian squad to pursue their World Cup ambitions. “The goal is to enjoy the quality these players possess and channel it effectively towards our objective: winning the World Cup.”
The Brazil squad includes goalkeepers Alisson, Bento, and Hugo Souza; defenders Alex Sandro, Alexsandro, Lucas Beraldo, Carlos Augusto, Danilo, Leo Ortiz, Vanderson, Wesley, and Marquinhos; midfielders Andreas Pereira, Andrey Santos, Bruno Guimarães, Casemiro, Ederson, and Gerson; and forwards Antony, Estevao, Gabriel Martinelli, Matheus Cunha, Raphinha, Richarlison, and Vinicius Jr.
Original Source: https://www.sentinelassam.com/sports-news/carlo-ancelotti-unveiled-as-brazil-manager-he-eyes-world-cup-glory
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Publish Date: 2025-05-28 10:50:00
