Carlo Ancelotti confirms the possibility of a comeback at Real Madrid

Coach Carlo Ancelotti is said to have reached a conclusive decision about coming back to lead Real Madrid.

According to The Athletic, Carlo Ancelotti will not be returning to coach Real Madrid, despite recent rumors suggesting he might reappear at the Bernabeu after the 2026 World Cup.

Instead, the Italian strategist is reportedly preparing to sign a new four-year contract with the Brazil national team. This move means he will continue his long-term commitment to the Selecao, affirming his future dedication to Brazilian football rather than returning to Spain.

Earlier this year, Coach Ancelotti attracted attention with a visit to the Bernabeu during the match between Real Madrid and Levante in La Liga’s 20th round. This action unintentionally sparked speculation that the 66-year-old coach might consider a third stint leading the royal club. However, the real purpose of his visit was to observe and assess the performance of key Brazil national team players, including Vinicius and Rodrygo. Additionally, Ancelotti showed special interest in Raphinha, a player who has demonstrated significant progress and made a strong impact at Barcelona over the past two years.

After achieving numerous successes during his second tenure at Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti officially took the role of head coach for the Brazil national team in May 2025, succeeding Dorival Junior. Notably, the Italian coach made history as the first foreign manager to lead the Selecao.

In the final stretch of the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, Ancelotti managed four matches, helping Brazil defeat Chile and Paraguay, draw with Ecuador, before suffering a loss to Bolivia. These results were sufficient for the Selecao to secure their 23rd World Cup appearance.

Following the qualifiers, the yellow and green team entered a series of four friendly matches: they beat South Korea and Senegal, drew with Tunisia, and lost to Japan.

At the 2026 World Cup, Brazil will face Morocco at MetLife Stadium in their opening match. Afterwards, they will move to Lincoln Financial Field to play against Haiti. The South American team’s group stage journey will conclude with a match against Scotland at Hard Rock Stadium.