CBF president finally opens up on Carlo Ancelotti’s appointment – ‘We are working with…’ | OneFootball

Rodrigo Caetano, director of the Brazilian national team, has given fresh insight into the country’s pursuit of a new manager, without naming names, but all signs continue to point toward Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti as the man set to take charge for the 2026 World Cup.

Speaking to Sport TV (via Mundo Deportivo), Caetano confirmed that the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is in the final stages of its selection process.

Despite his carefully chosen words and repeated emphasis on confidentiality, the timing and circumstances strongly hint at Ancelotti being the chosen candidate.

“We intend to finalise the name by next week at the latest,” Caetano stated. “We are holding internal meetings constantly, along with President Ednaldo Rodrigues. This is a matter of national importance.”

Anything on Ancelotti?

Brazil has been without a permanent head coach since the dismissal of Dorival Junior following the loss to Argentina during the March international break.

Carlo Ancelotti is favourite to get the Brazil job. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Since then, the CBF has been exploring its options, and while Caetano refused to confirm any individual in contention, speculation around Ancelotti has only intensified.

According to reports, Ancelotti has reached an amicable agreement with Real Madrid to part ways at the end of the current season.

The Italian manager’s exit could be officially announced as soon as the coming week, particularly if Madrid’s result in the Clasico allows for the transition to move forward smoothly.

Asked directly about Ancelotti, Caetano offered a guarded response:

“We’re working with a very small number of names… but discussing a specific name at this moment is difficult and not appropriate given the sensitivity of the negotiations.”

It is no secret that Brazil has been courting Ancelotti for some time.

The CBF has long admired the veteran Italian’s tactical expertise and calm demeanour—qualities seen as vital for rebuilding Brazil’s reputation after disappointing World Cup and Copa América performances in recent years.