How Carlo Ancelotti Is Already Turning Brazil Into 2026 World Cup Favorites

Carlo Ancelotti was made the Brazilian head coach very early on, but has already made major changes. Their recent 2-0 victory over Senegal on paper isn’t important, but for those looking closer, they saw an invigorated and much more organized Brazil team.

Carlo Ancelotti’s Hiring

When Ancelotti was confirmed to be Brazil’s national team coach in May 2025, few would’ve denied the ambition behind the move. The veteran tactician arrived both as a high-profile hire and as a mission-driven leader to restore Brazil to their World Cup contention.

He will lean on his ability to get the best out of players and to build a system around their talents to unify a very divided Brazil team.

Carlo Ancelotti’s Quick Transformation Of Brazil

In a few months, Ancelotti has reshaped the Seleção’s identity with a blend of tactical pragmatism and that Joga Bonito attacking flair. He has leaned into a more structured, high-pressure style that gives Brazil defensive prowess without sacrificing their creative firepower. It is a balance that Vinícius Júnior praised following Brazil’s dominant 5-0 win over South Korea.

This shift has not gone unnoticed. Bookmakers have moved Brazil into serious contention for the 2026 World Cup, reflecting growing confidence from the whole soccer world in Ancelotti’s vision for Brazil. This appointment is exactly what Brazil wanted and needed.

Veteran voices within the squad, like Casemiro, who played for the coach at Real Madrid, have publicly backed the coach. He highlighted his ability to elevate elite talent and forge unity. Ancelotti’s deep ties to Brazilian football also give him a cultural edge: he’s worked with icons such as Kaká and Ronaldo, and now has young stars like Vinícius Jr. and Estêvão under his wing.

The Pressure Is Immense

Brazil remains mired in internal instability (including CBF governance issues), and the specter of 2026 looms large for a coach coming to the national team for the first time. But if early performances and public sentiment are any guide, Ancelotti’s arrival could be the defining moment for a Brazilian resurgence, transforming the Seleção from hopeful contenders into genuine World Cup favorites.