Carlo Ancelotti leads Brazil to the 2026 World Cup, aiming to become the first foreign-born coach to lift football’s most prestigious trophy

Carlo Ancelotti leads Brazil into uncharted territory as the first foreign-born coach in six decades to take charge of the Seleção, with a bold target in mind — winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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The decorated Italian manager, who officially took the reins in May, has already guided Brazil through a rocky qualification campaign, securing a place at next summer’s tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Speaking ahead of Brazil’s friendly clash with Japan in Tokyo on Tuesday, Ancelotti acknowledged the weight of history, but remained undeterred.

“No foreign-born coach has ever won the World Cup, but there is always a first time in life,” he said confidently.

The five-time world champions looked revitalised in last week’s 5-0 demolition of South Korea in Seoul, with 18-year-old sensation Estevão bagging a brace and Real Madrid duo Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo also on the scoresheet.

Fans celebrated the result as a return to “jogo bonito”, Brazil’s iconic brand of beautiful football.

Still, Ancelotti was quick to temper the euphoria, stressing the need for balance between flair and structure.

“Brazilian players have individual quality, but that is combined with teamwork and movement off the ball. That’s very important in football,” he explained.

Ancelotti is Brazil’s fourth manager since Tite departed after their shock quarter-final exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The transition has not been without challenges—Brazil finished fifth in the South American qualifiers.

One lingering question remains over Neymar, who is sidelined with a thigh injury until at least November. His place in the World Cup squad is far from guaranteed.

“If Neymar is in good condition, of course he can fit into the national team. If he’s fit, he can play in any team in the world,” Ancelotti said.

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As anticipation builds for Brazil’s 2026 campaign, Ancelotti remains focused on making history — not just for himself, but for a nation that lives and breathes football.