Carlo Ancelotti has been announced as the first foreign manager of Brazil’s men’s national team ahead of his impending Real Madrid exit.

The Italian coach’s future has been uncertain since Madrid’s exit from the Champions League quarter-finals at the hands of Arsenal. Initially, there were dramatic reports suggesting that Ancelotti might be dismissed before the end of the season. However, the decision-makers at the Spanish club allowed their successful manager to lead the team through two more losses in the Clasico.

After their defeat in last month’s Copa del Rey final, Ancelotti’s team squandered a 2-0 advantage to lose 4-3 to Barcelona on Sunday. This loss essentially gifted the La Liga title to the Catalan team, which could be officially secured as soon as Wednesday night, should Madrid fail to secure a win against Mallorca.

Amid widespread rumors connecting him to the open position as Brazil’s manager, and then quickly separating him from the role, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) formally announced his appointment on Monday afternoon.

“The CBF is proud to confirm that Carlo Ancelotti will become the next head coach of the Brazilian national football team,” a statement read.

“Mr Ancelotti, a legend of the game as the most successful manager in football history, will officially take charge following the conclusion of the 2024/25 La Liga season, ahead of Brazil’s FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in June. His official start date May 26th, 2025.

“Carlo Ancelotti arrives as the first foreign manager in the history of the Selecao. This landmark moment sees the coming together of two icons – the only five-time FIFA World Cup champions, and a coach with an unmatched record across Europe’s elite competitions.

“The CBF warmly welcomes Mr Ancelotti and looks forward to a new era of success under his leadership.”

Ancelotti had a year left on his Real Madrid contract and the CBF extended its “sincere gratitude to Real Madrid and Mr [Florentino] Perez [club president] for the cordiality and sportsmanship shown in facilitating the coach’s release during his contract term, allowing this new chapter to begin with mutual respect and cooperation between the team”.

The outgoing tactician is widely expected to be replaced at Real Madrid by Xabi Alonso. Following the official announcement of his decision to step down as Bayer Leverkusen boss this summer – again, one year before his contract expired – it was all but confirmed that the former Madrid midfielder would be returning to the Santiago Bernabeu.

However, shortly before Ancelotti’s confirmed exit, reports claimed that Alonso would be in position to take over Madrid for this summer’s Club World Cup, removing the need for any interim coach.