Carlo Ancelotti has revealed he could make a third managerial return to Real Madrid once his spell in charge of Brazil ends at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 65-year-old Italian, who left Madrid in June for his first-ever national team role, has already guided the Selecão to qualification and is under pressure to deliver their first World Cup title in over 20 years. His contract runs until the end of the tournament, though he is open to staying longer.
“After the World Cup, everything is open. I think it was right at the time to sign a one-year contract. I have no problem if the CBF wants to continue,” Ancelotti told ESPN.
“I’m very happy here, my family is happy too… It would be nice (to stay until 2030).”
However, at club level, the veteran tactician admitted that Real Madrid remains the only job he would consider after Brazil. Speaking to L’Équipe, he stressed his attachment to Los Blancos:
“Real Madrid is the only team I will accept managing after Brazil.”
Ancelotti also reflected on the challenges of his final season at the Bernabéu, citing a defensive injury crisis that disrupted their campaign.
“We didn’t achieve the success we wanted. We suffered too many injuries in defence… there were games where we only had two real defenders,” he explained.
For now, Ancelotti’s focus remains firmly on preparing Brazil for the 2026 World Cup, but speculation is already building about a possible Bernabéu homecoming once his Selecão chapter ends.
