Why Brazil Is Watching the Real–Barça Final So Closely

       Why Brazil Is Watching the Real–Barça Final So Closely

                                       Face off in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday night

Just a month ago, Brazil's national football team was left without a head coach following the dismissal of Dorival Júnior. Since then, there has been much speculation about who will take charge of the Seleção. If the rumors hold any truth, the wait may soon be over. The frontrunner? The iconic Carlo Ancelotti, manager of Real Madrid. Reports from ESPN indicate that talks between the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and Ancelotti have resumed. Although he is contracted with Real Madrid until 2026, the CBF remains hopeful that he might depart at the end of the current season to usher in a new era for the Brazilian national team. 

A crucial moment is on the horizon—this Saturday, Real Madrid will clash with Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final. The outcome of this match could not only decide the trophy's fate but also Ancelotti's future as one of football's most seasoned managers. A defeat against their long-standing rivals could seal his destiny at Madrid, a fact the Brazilian federation is acutely aware of. While Ancelotti maintains a calm public persona, he hasn't outright denied the swirling rumors. When questioned about his future with Madrid, he responded, “There’s nothing to say right now. We’ll talk about it at the end of the season.” However, behind that composed facade, there may be significant developments occurring. 

                               Ancelotti could be sacked if Barca lose, AFP

ESPN has reported that Ancelotti’s representatives have recently engaged with high-ranking CBF officials. Brazil has been eyeing Ancelotti for quite some time, especially since the 2022 Qatar World Cup. The CBF had been pursuing him, and prior to last year’s Copa América, his appointment seemed almost certain—until he opted to extend his contract with Madrid for an additional two years. Consequently, Brazil turned to Dorival Júnior, whose brief tenure ultimately did not meet expectations.

As Brazil seeks a new leader and Ancelotti faces mounting pressure after a crushing 5–1 aggregate defeat to Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals, the circumstances may finally be coming together. Real Madrid is also trailing Barcelona by four points in the La Liga title race with only five matches remaining, which adds even more significance to the upcoming Copa del Rey final. 

Although Ancelotti maintains his focus on Madrid, signs of a potential exit appear to be emerging. A CBF official was reportedly seen at the Santiago Bernabéu during the second leg of the Champions League quarter-final, although the CBF has since refuted this claim. 

Nevertheless, the interest is palpable. For Brazil, this weekend's final transcends the fierce rivalry of Spanish football; it could very well influence the direction of their national team. 

While it remains uncertain if Carlo Ancelotti will take on the role of Brazil's next head coach, one thing is certain: the entire nation will be tuning in to Saturday's final with more than just a passing interest.