Brazil is searching for a new head coach and have returned their attention to Real Madrid gaffer Carlo Ancelotti. According to The Athletic, the Italian manager is more open to the job than before.
The Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) is keen to appoint a successor to Dorival Junior before the Club World Cup kicks off in June, with Ancelotti and Jorge Jesus of Al Hilal emerging as the top candidates.
Ancelotti’s Real Madrid and Jesus’ Al Hilal are both set to compete in the tournament, which takes place in the United States from June 14 to July 13.
However, Brazil have crucial World Cup qualifiers before then. They lock horns with Ecuador away on June 4 and Paraguay at home on June 9.
The CBF wants the new coach in place for these matches, as Brazil currently sit fourth in the CONMEBOL qualifying group, with the top six teams securing an automatic spot in the 2026 World Cup.
For Ancelotti or Jesus to take the Brazil job, they may have to leave their respective clubs before the Club World Cup. Jesus is reportedly open to an immediate move, with his contract at Al Hilal expiring at the end of the tournament.
Meanwhile, the CBF has made multiple approaches to Ancelotti, including in 2022 and 2023, but Madrid extended his contract until 2026 to fend off the speculation.
Despite his previous commitment to Madrid, Ancelotti is believed to be re-evaluating his future due to mounting pressures and reported leaks from within the club questioning his long-term role.
Also, his son and assistant coach, Davide Ancelotti, is set to leave Madrid at the end of the season, which could influence his decision.
Madrid held talks with Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso as a potential successor, further fuelling doubts over Ancelotti.
While Madrid officials believe he still wants to stay, circumstances may push him towards a new challenge with the five-time World Cup winners.
Meanwhile, Jesus remains a strong candidate, with his recent success at Al Hilal bolstering his credentials. The Portuguese tactician is in his second stint with the Saudi club, securing the Saudi Pro League and King’s Cup last season and has them in contention for another title.
