Carlo Ancelotti’s Vision for Brazil
Carlo Ancelotti aims to transform Brazil’s national football team to emulate the successful style of his former Real Madrid squad from the 2022-23 season, rather than the less stellar 2023-24 campaign. Just days after stepping down from his role at Madrid due to unsatisfactory results, Ancelotti embraced his new position leading the Brazilian team.
Ancelotti’s Aspirations
In an interview with Marca, he expressed his ambition, stating,
“I want Brazil to mirror Real Madrid’s play, specifically how we performed last season.”
Last year was a momentous one for Real, as they secured five significant trophies. In contrast, the most recent season was a setback, marked by a defeat to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final, an exit from the Champions League at the quarterfinal stage, and finishing second in La Liga. Reflecting on his departure, Ancelotti remarked,
“The results were disappointing, and the quality of our play was lacking. It was inevitable that changes needed to happen.”
The World Cup Challenge
For Brazil, the challenge is formidable; the team has not claimed a World Cup title since 2002. Ancelotti is stepping into a role where he encounters a squad that has frequently underperformed in international tournaments, having been eliminated several times before the semifinals, particularly in events held outside its home country since 2010.
Despite these trials, Ancelotti remains optimistic about Brazil’s potential.
“Brazil is the best national team in the world – the five stars on their jerseys prove it. I have the responsibility to strive for the sixth World Cup title, but this requires harmony and support from the whole nation. We need unity, humility, and collective effort to succeed,”
he asserted.
Commitment to Championship Status
Ancelotti’s commitment to the national team is deeply rooted in understanding the magnitude of the World Cup – a prestigious contest that transcends club accolades.
“Winning it reflects the support of an entire country, which is profoundly appealing to me. I’m determined to restore Brazil’s championship status, and I’m confident that with dedication, we can achieve this goal,”
he emphasized.
Working with Talented Players
The Italian coach will have the advantage of working with players he has previously guided, including the talented forward Vinícius Júnior, who finished as the Ballon d’Or runner-up last October. Although Vinícius has recorded only six goals in 39 games for Brazil since his debut in 2019, Ancelotti believes that the young star has the capability to thrive on the international stage.
Commenting on Vinícius, Ancelotti praised him as an extraordinary talent, stating,
“He is exceptional, hardworking, and a true fighter. The weight of representing Brazil can be heavy for players, often hampering their performance, but I am certain he will excel. He is among the world’s elite and will soon demonstrate his best.”
