Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti is preparing to step down from his role to take over as head coach of the Brazil national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, according to multiple reports.
The Athletic, citing unnamed sources, reported that the Italian manager has already informed Real Madrid players in the locker room of his planned departure.
The report was echoed by Sky Sports and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who said Ancelotti is expected to assume the Brazil job during the upcoming international break in June. That would mean he will not be in charge of Real Madrid during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in the United States from June 14 to July 13 next year.
Spanish sports daily Marca reported that verbal agreements have already been finalized, with only the official contract signing remaining.
Ancelotti, 65, is under contract with Real Madrid until 2026, but his departure has become more likely following recent setbacks, including the club’s elimination from the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals and a loss to archrival Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final.
Former Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso, who recently led Bayer Leverkusen to their first Bundesliga title, is widely considered the leading candidate to replace Ancelotti.
Ancelotti is in his second stint managing the Spanish giants, having returned in 2021. He has won the Champions League twice with the club.
Real Madrid currently sit second in La Liga, four points behind Barcelona ahead of their crucial showdown at Camp Nou on May 11.
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