Carlo Ancelotti has announced that he will officially assume his role as head coach of Brazil’s national team on May 26, once Real Madrid’s season concludes.

During a press briefing on Tuesday, Ancelotti looked back fondly on his tenure with the Spanish club and commended former player Xabi Alonso, now an emerging manager, for his impressive progress.

“Xabi Alonso doesn’t need any advice from me as he’s a great manager. He has everything to become a top, top coach,” Ancelotti said.

The Italian manager, who returned to Real Madrid in 2021 for a second stint, revealed his upcoming plans while expressing heartfelt gratitude to the club and its fans. 

“I’m gonna coach Brazil from May 26. Like everything in life, things come to an end. I enjoyed my time here.

“I will be a Real Madrid fan for the rest of my life. I never thought I’d be coach for six years. I have to thank the club,” he said.

Ancelotti, 65, is set to become the first foreign coach to lead Brazil’s men’s national team.

He will begin his tenure with Brazil’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign, with his first official match slated for June 6 against Ecuador.

His appointment comes after Dorival Junior was relieved of his duties in March, following a 14-month spell in charge.