Key Highlights :
The Brazil Football Confederation (CBF) has confirmed its stance on Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, who has been strongly linked with the currently vacant Selecao head coach position. The Italian tactician has a contract in Spain until the end of next season and has, on a number of occasions, stated he will honour his agreement at Los Blancos.
However, Ancelotti, 63, has often drawn into speculation around his future of late, amid reports he is wanted by the Brazil national team following Tite's departure after the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Even the Brazil internationals in the Real dressing room have backed their federation's pursuit of the legendary manager, with CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues now confirming Ancelotti is their "plan A".
"I'm not saying Ancelotti has an offer from us, but we are checking if he wants to come," he told . "We've a plan A and I say it for the first time honestly. There is no point in hiding this, Ancelotti is our favourite."
Ancelotti is one of the sport's most successful managers in history, having claimed an incredible four UEFA Champions League titles and league honours in all five of Europe's top divisions. He has also achieved success in Italy, England, France, Germany, and Spain, and has been linked with a return to his homeland for some time.
The CBF's pursuit of Ancelotti is understandable, given his proven track record of success. He has the experience and tactical nous to take the Selecao to the next level, and his presence in the dugout would be a huge boost for a nation that has been struggling to replicate its past glories in recent years.
The CBF is yet to make a formal offer to Ancelotti, but they are confident that he is the man to bring the Selecao back to the top. With the World Cup just around the corner, the CBF will be hoping to make a swift decision on the matter, as they look to secure the services of one of the greatest managers of all time.