Carlo Ancelotti set to leave Real Madrid as Brazil prepare for official appointment

Carlo Ancelotti is expected to step down as Real Madrid head coach at the end of the season, paving the way for his anticipated move to the Brazil national team. According to The Athletic, the key obstacle — a financial settlement tied to his 2026 contract — has now been resolved between the parties.

While no announcement has been made yet, the club is not rushing. Spanish outlet Marca reports that confirmation could be delayed until after this weekend’s El Clasico against Barcelona. Madrid sit four points behind with four matches to go, and the outcome in Catalonia may determine when the news becomes official.

CBF’s timeline still intact

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) had been targeting 20 May as a deadline to name a new coach, ahead of June friendlies against Ecuador and Paraguay. The informal agreement with Ancelotti aligns with that objective. Though the CBF has not issued a formal statement, the expectation is that the transition will be confirmed before Brazil next take the pitch.

Madrid’s search for a successor

With Ancelotti’s departure now imminent, attention in Madrid has shifted to his successor. The expanded FIFA Club World Cup begins in mid-June, leaving little margin for delay. Xabi Alonso, who led Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title in the 2023/24 season — the first in the club’s history — is considered the leading candidate. However, current sporting director Santiago Solari is also under consideration for an interim role.

End of a second era at the Bernabéu

This will mark the close of Ancelotti’s second term at Madrid. His first spell included a Champions League title, but expectations have shifted since then. The club’s pursuit of Kylian Mbappé, an early Champions League exit, and inconsistent league form all contributed to the decision to move in a new direction.

Brazil prepare for a new chapter

For Brazil, Ancelotti brings more than just name recognition. The CBF view him as a coach with the kind of experience — at tournaments, under pressure, with stars — that fits the demands of Copa América 2024 and the upcoming World Cup qualification cycle. His appointment, once confirmed, would begin a new tactical and structural phase for the Seleção.