Carlo Ancelotti plots 2026 FIFA World Cup with ex-Milan, Real Madrid star Kaka as his No.2 — From Ronaldo Nazario to Vinicius: Every Brazilian he’s managed
As the Carlo Ancelotti era officially begins for Brazil, the Italian manager is already shaping his vision for the Seleção’s long-awaited resurgence. Ancelotti, who will take over following the end of the La Liga season with Real Madrid, is not just assembling a squad—he’s quietly building a bench that could rival the star power on the pitch. Among his targets for the technical staff is a figure that once dazzled soccer fans in Milan and Madrid, a name synonymous with elegance, flair, and trophies.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed Ancelotti’s appointment on May 12, ending months of speculation. The 64-year-old will officially begin his duties on May 26, just days after guiding Real Madrid to another Champions League title. The mission is clear: restore Brazil to its former glory, with last year’s Copa America heartbreak and a quarterfinal exit at the 2022 World Cup still fresh in the minds of fans.
Ancelotti, the first non-Brazilian to coach the Seleção in over a century, brings with him an unmatched resume: Champions League titles with Milan and Madrid, domestic triumphs in England, France, Germany, and Italy, and a reputation for adapting to elite talent. But this time, he might be sharing the touchline with someone who once embodied Brazilian soccer at its very best.
Kaka set for coaching debut?
According to CNN Brasil, Ancelotti has personally contacted Ricardo Kaka—the 2007 Ballon d’Or winner—to explore a possible assistant coaching role. “Ancelotti and Kaka have a long history of success together,” the report noted. “Under Ancelotti’s leadership, Kaka and AC Milan won five trophies, including two Champions League titles.”
The two also briefly reunited at Real Madrid in 2013, before Kaka returned to Milan. Since retiring in 2017, the former midfielder has largely stayed out of the sport. But this would be a different beast entirely—coaching Brazil at a World Cup.
Still, Ancelotti’s trust in the midfield maestro comes from years of shared success. The duo partnered for 270 games, more than any other Brazilian player under Ancelotti, with Dida (267) and Rodrygo (208) following closely behind.
From Ronaldo to Vinicius: Ancelotti’s Brazilian gallery
If there’s a coach who understands Brazilian talent, it’s Ancelotti. He’s worked with over 40 Brazilian players throughout his storied career, including legends like Ronaldo Nazario, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, Cafu, and Dida at Milan. At Real Madrid, he has overseen the rise of Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Eder Militao, and now Endrick, the latest teenage sensation.
Ancelotti also coached Richarlison at Everton, Thiago Silva at PSG, and a host of other Brazilian stars at Chelsea, Bayern Munich, and Juventus. His deep understanding of the Brazilian soccer psyche could be crucial as Brazil prepares for a generational shift ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
All Brazilian players Ancelotti has worked with
Milan: Dida, Cafu, Kaka, Ronaldinho, Rivaldo, Ronaldo Nazario, Serginho, Alexandre Pato, Ricardo Oliveira, Emerson, Roque Junior, Leonardo, Marcio Amoroso, Digao, Felipe Mattioni, Claiton
Juventus: Athirson
Parma: Ze Maria, Adailton, Amaral
Chelsea: Ramires, Alex, Juliano Belletti, David Luiz
PSG: Thiago Silva, Maxwell, Nene, Lucas Moura, Ceara
Bayern Munich: Rafinha, Douglas Costa
Everton: Ricarlison, Bernard, Allan (also at Napoli)
Real Madrid: Vinicius, Rodrygo, Eder Militao, Endrick, Marcelo, Casemiro, Lucas Silva, Vinicius Tobias, Willian Jose