Veteran Brazilian coach Abel Braga has raised concerns about Carlo Ancelotti leading Brazil to World Cup glory, saying the Italian’s nationality makes him less suited for the role.
Braga, 73, said that while the Selecao have shown progress since Ancelotti took charge, he doubts a foreign coach can match the passion and commitment of a Brazilian. “It bothers me,” Braga told Globo Esporte. “I’m not talking about his quality. Everyone says he’s a good person. But when you open his jacket, his skin isn’t green and yellow. The five world titles were won by Brazilians. There’s sadness, because people no longer believe in Brazilian coaches.”
Ancelotti replaced Dorival Junior after leaving Real Madrid in the summer. His first match in charge ended in a goalless draw against Ecuador, before a narrow win over Paraguay and a convincing 3-0 victory against Chile lifted Brazil to second in the World Cup qualifying standings.
Despite acknowledging the team’s improvements, Braga criticised the praise Ancelotti has received. “His first game was ugly, terrible, with the team nervous and sitting back. If it had been Dorival or Diniz, there would have been constant criticism. But since it was Ancelotti, the press called it progress,” he said.
Braga went further, predicting Ancelotti would not deliver the World Cup in 2026. “I hope I’m wrong, but I don’t think he’ll be a world champion. That other generation, with Endrick, Estevao, those guys will conquer. They’re outstanding,” he added.
Brazil face Bolivia today in their next qualifier. They remain second in the table, 10 points behind leaders Argentina.
