13 February 2023 , 07:30
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Carlo Ancelotti has poured cold water on reports that he will take over as Brazil manager and insisted he will only leave Real Madrid if he is sacked.
The Brazil national post has been vacant since the South American nation’s World Cup quarter final exit to Croatia on penalties – with former boss Tite not renewing his contract which expired in December. Brazil were favourites to win the competition and their last eight finish was a disappointment.
It was suggested that Ancelotti, should he depart, would be replaced by club president Florentino Perez with Real Madrid’s former boss Zinedine Zidane. The Frenchman has been out of work since leaving the Spanish giants in the summer of 2021 and was linked to the Manchester United hot seat last season.
Zidane has frequently spoken of his desire to return to management after two successful stints at the helm of Real Madrid. However, it may be the legendary former midfielder, rather than Ancelotti, who is appointed Brazil boss.
After guiding Real Madrid to their Club World Cup title with victory over Al-Hilal on Sunday, Ancelotti told reporters when asked about suggestions he was set for the Brazil post: “I am not leaving here until they sack me.”
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That firm rebuttal may open the door for Zidane, is familiar with many of Brazil’s star players including Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes and Casemiro – having coached the trio in the Spanish capital. He fits the ideal profile for the Brazilian FA due to his pedigree, man-management and that he is not contracted to another club. They are said to be willing to appoint a non-Brazilian in the role.
Zidane has not been out of football since leaving Real Madrid 18 months ago (Getty Images)Have Your Say! What is next for Zidane in management? Tell us what you think here.
Brazil were the favourites to win last year's World Cup but suffered a shock quarter-final exit to Croatia. To make matters worse, rivals Argentina went on to win the tournament. Brazil are five-time world champions, but haven't lifted the trophy since 2002.
They are in no rush to appoint Tite's successor, as their next major tournament isn't until 2024. Should they not have a successful season, Real Madrid may part ways with Ancelotti this summer. Despite winning La Liga and the Champions League last season, Los Blancos are currently eight points off Barcelona in La Liga.
Zidane famously netted twice for France to beat Brazil 3-0 in the 1998 World Cup final, but a report in L’Equipe outlined how he is now the favoured candidate for the job, with influential backing from his former Real Madrid teammate Ronaldo.
It had been believed Zidane was waiting for Didier Deschamps to leave the France national team, but he is staying on in the role for Euro 2024 having guided Les Bleus to a second successive World Cup final.