The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is intensifying its pursuit of Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, extending its deadline to May 26, 2025, to secure him as the national team’s head coach, according to ESPN. The CBF’s decision comes as Ancelotti navigates a complex standoff with Real Madrid over the timing and financial terms of his potential departure, with the LaLiga title race adding further uncertainty. Real Madrid, trailing leaders Barcelona by four points with five matches remaining, face a pivotal El Clásico clash on May 11, 2025, which could influence Ancelotti’s future.
The CBF is eager to appoint a coach by May 26 to prepare Brazil’s squad for crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador on June 4 and Paraguay on June 9. Ancelotti, long considered the CBF’s top choice to replace Dorival Júnior—sacked in March 2025 after a 4-1 loss to Argentina—had appeared close to finalizing an agreement. However, negotiations have hit a snag due to financial disputes with Real Madrid, where Ancelotti is contracted until June 2026. Sources indicate that Madrid expects compensation from the CBF if Ancelotti leaves voluntarily, while a potential compromise could see Madrid covering part of his remaining salary, with Brazil making up the difference.
Ancelotti’s tenure at Madrid has been under scrutiny following a disappointing 2024-25 season, marked by a 5-1 aggregate loss to Arsenal in the Champions League quarterfinals and a Copa del Rey final defeat to Barcelona. With Madrid’s final LaLiga match against Real Sociedad set for May 24 or 25, the CBF is prepared to wait until the season concludes to resolve the impasse. The federation’s urgency stems from Brazil’s need for stability ahead of the World Cup, with the team currently fourth in the CONMEBOL qualifying table. Brazilian stars Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, who play under Ancelotti at Madrid, reportedly support his potential appointment.
While Ancelotti remains the CBF’s preferred candidate, the federation is also exploring alternatives, including Al Hilal’s Jorge Jesus and Palmeiras’ Abel Ferreira, should talks falter. Recent reports suggest Ancelotti has informed Madrid’s dressing room of his intent to leave, with Xabi Alonso tipped as a likely successor at the Bernabéu. However, a last-minute offer from Saudi Arabia has introduced fresh uncertainty, complicating the CBF’s plans. As negotiations continue, with CBF emissaries in Madrid to finalize terms, the outcome hinges on Ancelotti’s ability to secure a smooth exit, balancing his storied legacy at Madrid with Brazil’s ambitions for World Cup glory.
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