Brazilian football legend Zico has thrown his weight behind Carlo Ancelotti, calling the Italian tactician the ideal man to restore Brazil’s dominance on the global stage.
Ancelotti recently made history as the first non-Brazilian in nearly six decades to be appointed head coach of the national team.
The 65-year-old, who boasts five UEFA Champions League titles and a storied career managing elite clubs such as Real Madrid, AC Milan, Chelsea, PSG, Bayern Munich, and Juventus, has pledged to make Brazil world champions again.
Zico, one of Brazil’s most revered players, believes Ancelotti’s deep understanding of Brazilian football and his proven success with Brazilian stars make him the perfect choice.
“Ancelotti played with Brazilian players, he has been a champion coach with Brazilian players at several teams and he’s always praised Brazilian players and put them in a position to help him,” Zico told AFP from Japan, where he currently advises J.League side Kashima Antlers.
“He has a great understanding, he loves football and his approach to football is very much in line with Brazilian thinking.
“So I think he can be successful for this reason, he can help Brazilian players thrive with his knowledge, his ability and his expertise.”
Ancelotti is credited with nurturing talents like Vinicius Junior, whom he helped transform at Real Madrid from an erratic winger to a star performer in La Liga.
Despite Brazil currently sitting fourth in the South American qualifying table for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Zico remains optimistic. He acknowledges the difficult road ahead, with crucial fixtures against Ecuador and Bolivia looming, but believes Ancelotti’s presence is a boost.
“Now is not a good time for Brazilian coaches, not just in Brazil but all over the world,” said Zico, who has managed teams in countries like Iraq, India, and Uzbekistan.
“Now, when it comes to the Brazil team, if you’re going to bring someone in, bring the best. As I see it, Brazil brought the best.
“For me he’s the best, so I don’t see anything to complain about.”
Ancelotti becomes Brazil’s fourth manager since Tite’s departure after the 2022 World Cup quarter-final defeat to Croatia. With the clock ticking towards the next tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Zico sees potential if the team qualifies.
“I think Brazil have a chance if Ancelotti manages to do a good job in the short time he has,” he said.
“I think Brazil could become one of the contenders for the title. Why not? I don’t see any team in the world today as favourites.”
With Ancelotti at the helm, the footballing world watches to see whether his European pedigree can translate into World Cup glory for the Seleção.
