Carlo Ancelotti to coach Brazil: Who will manage Real Madrid at 2025 FIFA Club World Cup?

Carlo Ancelotti's long-rumoured takeover of Brazil's national team was made official on Monday, leaving Real Madrid without a manager ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Ancelotti ends his second stint with Los Blancos on May 26, the date the CBF has confirmed that the Italian will take the reins of the Selecao.

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

“Mr. Ancelotti is 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. “

While Brazil's future is set with 13 months to go until the 2026 FIFA World Cup, what about Real Madrid? Who will manage the famed side during next month's FIFA Club World Cup and beyond?

Who will manage Real Madrid at 2025 FIFA Club World Cup?

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When murmurs of Ancelotti's desire to link up with Brazil started several months ago, a few names were thrown about in media reports as potential replacements.

As time went on, however, one name stood out more than the rest: Xabi Alonso.

The former Real Madrid, Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Spain midfielder has gone on to become a successful manager, leading Bayer Leverkusen to a historic treble last season. The club will also finish second in the Bundesliga this season, cementing Alonso's reputation as a manager that can compete every year, and his playing days at Real Madrid make him an ideal replacemment for Ancelotti.

The 43-year-old is reportedly close to confirming a three-year contract with Los Blancos, with multiple reports on Monday indicating that the deal has already been agreed.

According to those same reports, Alonso would take over the La Liga giants in time for the FIFA Club World Cup.

 

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