Carlo Ancelotti, the seasoned Real Madrid manager, is set to officially take over the Seleção on May 26. And with that, he’ll become the first foreign manager to lead Brazil into a World Cup.

For over two decades, Brazil has been chasing the ghost of 2002, its last World Cup triumph. With the 2026 tournament on the horizon, the Brazilian Football Confederation is turning to a new figure, not born in Rio or raised in São Paulo, but shaped in Reggiolo, Italy. 

But can Ancelotti truly succeed where others have stumbled? Here are some reasons why he could succeed.

He is the calm hand in the storm

Brazil is arguably the most pressure-cooked job in international football. Expectations are sky-high, scrutiny is constant, and the weight of five World Cup stars stitched into the jersey looms over every decision. 

But if there’s one coach who knows how to stay composed under pressure, it’s Carlo Ancelotti.

His book “Quiet Leadership” wasn’t just a marketing tagline, it’s a reflection of a career built on calm authority and respect. In a country where coaching meltdowns make headlines, Ancelotti’s demeanor could offer exactly the kind of grounding the Brazilian squad needs.

Brazilian football legend Zico once said, “Ancelotti would be ideal because everyone, including opponents, respects him.” That kind of universal respect isn’t earned overnight. It’s forged through years of navigating the volatile terrain of elite football from Milan and London to Paris and Madrid.

 Ancelotti has familiar faces in the squad 

One of Ancelotti’s biggest advantages stepping into the Brazil job is his existing rapport with the team’s next generation of stars. While Neymar’s role in 2026 remains uncertain hampered by injuries and nearing his mid-thirties players like Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Eder Militao are stepping into the spotlight. 

Conveniently, all three have flourished under Ancelotti at Real Madrid. Vinicius, once criticized for lacking end product, has become one of La Liga’s most electric attackers. Rodrygo and Militao have also matured into dependable forces, each collecting multiple Champions League medals under Ancelotti’s calm guidance.

And then there’s Endrick, the teenage prodigy who has already scored goals for both Brazil and Real Madrid. He’ll be 20 by the time the next World Cup kicks off. Having a coach who understands how to manage young talent without suffocating it could be a massive bonus for Brazil.

It could be the final chapter in his legendary career

Carlo Ancelotti has already accomplished what few coaches can even dream of. He’s won league titles in all of Europe’s top five leagues. He has five Champions League titles to his name, two as a player, three as a manager. There’s only one piece left to complete his personal trophy collection: the World Cup.

This isn’t just another job for Ancelotti. It’s a personal challenge. International football operates on a different rhythm than club management, fewer matches, longer gaps, and fewer chances to correct mistakes. But it also presents a new kind of glory.

At 65, Ancelotti doesn’t need this job. But that’s what makes his decision all the more interesting. He’s not coming to Brazil for a paycheck or a brand boost. He’s here to win, to make history, and to leave the game having conquered both club and country.

Can he succeed?

Yes, but with conditions. Brazil still needs to solve tactical imbalances, improve its defensive spine, and build cohesion in attack. Ancelotti won’t wave a magic wand and fix everything overnight. 

But his calm demeanor, proven track record with young talent, and hunger for one last great achievement make him one of the best bets Brazil has made in years.

If anyone can break the 24-year World Cup drought, it might just be the quiet Italian with the loudest trophy cabinet in football.