Ancelotti becomes new coach of Brazil – will Xabi Alonso succeed him in Madrid?

(sda) Carlo Ancelotti is leaving Real Madrid after the upcoming season. The Italian will, as expected, become national coach of Brazil, the South American football association announced on Monday.

Ancelotti's departure from Madrid is no longer a surprise. Speculation has been circulating for some time. The first candidate to succeed the soon-to-be 66-year-old former international is Xabi Alonso. The Spaniard, once a Real Madrid player, announced a few days ago that he would not be extending his contract with Bundesliga club Leverkusen.

Ancelotti is leaving Real Madrid early – and after a disappointing season that will most likely end without a title. The Italian's contract was still valid for another year. Nevertheless, Ancelotti can look back on a successful second term at Real. In his four years, he led the team to two Champions League titles, two league titles, and one cup victory. His first ten-year tenure ended after two seasons with a Champions League and a league title.

There have been many rumors and reports recently surrounding Ancelotti's move to Brazil. He was supposed to coach the Seleção starting last summer, but then decided to join Real Madrid.

In Brazil, expectations are high. "The best national team in the history of football will now be led by the most successful coach in the world," Brazil's football association president, Ednaldo Rodrigues, is quoted as saying in the press release. "Bringing Carlo Ancelotti to the helm of Brazil is more than a strategic move. It is a signal to the world that we are determined to reclaim first place on the podium. Together, we will write glorious new chapters for Brazilian football."

Ancelotti has committed to next year's World Cup for the time being. He will be in charge of the qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay next month. Brazil is ranked fourth in the qualifying group after 14 of 18 matches.