Published Date: 2025-05-12 18:22:07 Updated At: 2025-05-12 18:22:47

Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti has wasted no time making moves behind the scenes of the Brazilian national team, following the official announcement of his appointment as head coach of the Seleção. According to Spanish reports, Ancelotti has opened a direct line of communication with one of Brazil's golden generation stars—Casemiro—in a serious attempt to convince him to return to the national team after a period of absence.
This move comes as no surprise to close followers of Ancelotti's career, especially considering the strong bond he shares with Casemiro. The pair formed a trusted partnership during their golden era at Real Madrid, where they achieved numerous domestic and international titles. Ancelotti fully understands Casemiro’s technical and leadership value on the field and clearly sees him as a missing piece in his plan to rebuild the Brazilian national team.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) officially announced Ancelotti’s appointment, stating that the decision goes beyond just technical matters. It sends a clear message to the world: Brazil is back with the ambition to restore its historic dominance and return to winning major titles. The CBF emphasized that Ancelotti is not just a coach, but a comprehensive project that reflects Brazil’s footballing ambitions.

Spanish newspaper AS was the first to report the details of the contact between Ancelotti and Casemiro. It confirmed that the new Seleção coach held a direct conversation with the Manchester United midfielder, expressing his clear desire for Casemiro to rejoin the national team as a key component of his revitalization project. The report noted that the strong relationship between the two could ease Casemiro’s decision, especially given his deep respect for Ancelotti and trust in his tactical vision.

Casemiro is widely considered one of Brazil's most influential midfielders of the last decade. His ability to shield the defense and provide balance between attack and defense made him a vital figure for Real Madrid for years. Under Ancelotti, Casemiro was a consistent presence in high-stakes matches thanks to his defensive solidity, ball-winning ability, and composure in building play from the back.

Brazilian FA President Ednaldo Rodrigues expressed pride in securing Ancelotti's services, declaring: “This is a historic moment by all standards. Ancelotti is the coach we were looking for—one with international experience and the ability to manage big stars. Now is the time to write a new chapter in Brazil’s footballing glory with his leadership and tactical mind.”

Ancelotti's efforts are not limited to Casemiro. Other reports indicate that a list of players is being considered for a call-up in the next training camp. Some previously excluded stars are expected to return for technical reasons, hinting at an upcoming tactical revolution within the Seleção. Meetings with young prospects are also expected as Ancelotti looks to strike the right balance between experience and youthful ambition.

Ancelotti will officially begin his tenure at the end of May, with his first real test coming on June 5th against Ecuador in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match is seen as highly significant—not just because it marks Ancelotti’s debut on the Brazilian touchline—but also because Ecuador, currently second in the standings, presents a formidable challenge.

Brazil currently sits fourth with 21 points, in a fiercely competitive race for direct qualification. The Ecuador match could be a turning point in their campaign, especially as Ecuador holds 23 points and aims to solidify its position among the continent's elite. Ancelotti is expected to field a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent, in line with his philosophy of tactical flexibility and disciplined play.

Brazil is clearly entering a new era. Ancelotti’s ambitions stretch far beyond qualification—he aims to build a team capable of reclaiming global dominance and bringing the World Cup back to Brazil after decades of waiting. His vision focuses on reshaping Brazil’s footballing identity and restoring balance and discipline—qualities the team has lacked at times in recent years.

While this appointment is expected to bring a significant transformation to the Seleção, all eyes will be on whether Ancelotti can replicate his European success in Latin America and whether the players will buy into his pragmatic, intelligent style. The big question remains: Can “Carletto” write a new chapter of glory with Brazil, or will the challenges prove greater than anticipated?

Time will tell. But what is certain is that Casemiro’s potential return could be the first true sign of Ancelotti’s serious intentions—marking the beginning of Brazil’s journey back to the global stage.