Tokyo, Japan – Carlo Ancelotti, head coach of Brazil’s national football team, has declared his ambition to lead the five-time world champions to victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, aiming to become the first foreign-born manager to achieve the feat.
Speaking ahead of Brazil’s friendly against Japan in Tokyo, Ancelotti acknowledged the historical challenge but remained optimistic. “No foreign-born coach has ever won the World Cup, but there is always a first time in life,” he said. “My goal is to give my best for the Brazil national team, to help them perform at their highest level and win the World Cup.”
Ancelotti, who took charge in May 2025, is Brazil’s first overseas coach in over sixty years. His appointment followed a turbulent period for the Seleção, which saw three managerial changes after Tite’s departure following Brazil’s quarter-final exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Brazil secured qualification for the 2026 tournament—set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico—despite a challenging campaign that saw them finish fifth in the South American standings. The team has since shown signs of resurgence, including a commanding 5-0 victory over South Korea in Seoul last week.
The match featured standout performances from 18-year-old forward Estevão, who netted twice, and Real Madrid stars Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior, both of whom added goals in a display hailed by fans as a return to “jogo bonito.” Ancelotti, however, emphasized that Brazil’s success must go beyond flair. “Brazilian players have individual quality, but that must be combined with teamwork and movement off the ball. That’s very important in football,” he said.
Brazil’s preparations for the World Cup continue without star forward Neymar, who is sidelined with a thigh injury until at least November. Ancelotti expressed confidence in the veteran’s potential return, stating, “If Neymar is in good condition, then of course he can fit into the national team. If he’s fit, he can play in any team in the world.”
The friendly against Japan is part of Brazil’s broader strategy to fine-tune its squad ahead of next summer’s tournament. Ancelotti’s leadership has already begun to reshape the team’s tactical identity, blending European discipline with Brazilian creativity.
As Brazil eyes a sixth World Cup title, Ancelotti’s tenure represents both a bold experiment and a historic opportunity. His pursuit of glory could redefine the boundaries of international football success and set a precedent for global coaching integration.
