Casemiro's Plea: Why Brazil Needs Ancelotti and His Own National Team Redemption

The Ancelotti Effect: A Brazilian Revival?

When the Brazilian Football Confederation announced Carlo Ancelotti as their new head coach, one voice rang out with particular enthusiasm - that of Manchester United’s Casemiro. The veteran midfielder, who spent three trophy-laden seasons under Ancelotti at Real Madrid, didn’t hesitate to endorse his former boss as the perfect man for the job.

“After Tite left, I knew it had to be him,” Casemiro told ESPN Brazil. “Brazil needs a professional like Ancelotti, a coach of his stature to help us bounce back.”

Tactical Mastery Meets Brazilian Flair

Having worked closely with Ancelotti during their time in Madrid (where they collected two Champions League trophies and a La Liga title), Casemiro speaks from firsthand experience about the Italian’s unique qualities:

“He’s extraordinary,” the midfielder gushed. “His understanding of football is breathtaking. Win or lose, when he starts talking about the game, that special ability to bring out the best in players just shines through.”

This praise comes at a critical juncture for Brazilian football. After disappointing recent tournament exits, many are questioning whether the Seleção can rediscover its swagger ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The Clock is Ticking

Ancelotti faces immediate pressure with World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay coming in June. Currently sitting fourth in CONMEBOL qualifying, Brazil can’t afford any slip-ups if they want direct passage to North America in 2026.

Casemiro expressed some concern about the timing: “Having a top coach like him is fantastic news for Brazil, but I can’t help feeling disappointed by how short his contract is. Knowing Ancelotti like I do, one year isn’t enough time for what he wants to achieve.”

Personal Redemption Story?

The interview took a personal turn when discussing Casemiro’s own international future. Having not featured for Brazil since October 2023, the 33-year-old made his ambitions clear:

“With a coach like Ancelotti in charge, success feels within reach,” he said. “I can’t promise trophies, but any player would jump at the chance to work under such a manager.”

This statement reads like both an endorsement and a not-so-subtle hint about his own availability. After struggling with form and fitness at Manchester United this season, a return to national team duty could provide exactly the fresh start Casemiro needs.