Brazilian football legend Ronaldinho has sparked debate after describing Carlo Ancelotti as the best coach in world football, expressing confidence that the Italian tactician will achieve major success with the Brazilian national team.
The former Barcelona and AC Milan forward believes Ancelotti has the experience, technical knowledge and leadership qualities required to restore Brazil to the top of international football, despite the disappointment surrounding the team’s recent World Cup campaign.
Speaking in an interview with Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, the 46-year-old did not hesitate when asked about his opinion of the current Brazil manager, insisting that he considers Ancelotti the finest coach in the game.
“He is the best coach in the world, and I am confident that he will achieve great things,” Ronaldinho said.
His comments underline the confidence some of Brazil’s former football greats have in Ancelotti, who was appointed head coach of the five-time world champions in May 2025.
The Italian’s appointment was widely regarded as a significant move by the Brazilian Football Confederation, which was seeking an experienced manager capable of bringing stability, discipline and a winning mentality to the national team.
Ancelotti arrived with an impressive managerial record, having won major trophies across Europe’s leading leagues with clubs including AC Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
His experience in handling some of the biggest names in football was expected to help Brazil rediscover its identity and return to competing for the biggest honours in the international game.
However, his time in charge has not been without challenges, with expectations remaining particularly high in a country where success at the FIFA World Cup is considered a major measure of football achievement.
Brazil’s campaign at last summer’s World Cup ended in disappointment after the Seleção were eliminated in the Round of 16 following a defeat to Norway.
The early exit was a major setback for a nation with a rich World Cup history and supporters who expect their national team to compete for the trophy at every tournament.
The result also raised questions about the team’s progress under Ancelotti and whether the experienced coach can successfully rebuild a side capable of challenging the world’s leading football nations.
Despite the disappointment, Ronaldinho remains convinced that Ancelotti is the right man for the job.
The former World Cup winner’s endorsement is significant, considering his experience at the highest level of international football and his understanding of the expectations surrounding the Brazilian national team.
Ronaldinho was part of the Brazil squad that won the 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan, alongside football greats such as Ronaldo Nazário and Rivaldo.
He was also one of the standout players of his generation, winning the Ballon d’Or in 2005 after producing a series of outstanding performances for Barcelona.
His backing of Ancelotti could therefore offer encouragement to the Italian as he continues his assignment with the Seleção.
Ancelotti’s current contract runs until 2030, meaning he is expected to remain in charge through the next FIFA World Cup cycle, provided there are no major changes to the arrangement.
That long-term commitment gives him an opportunity to build a team around his preferred tactical approach, identify the right combination of experienced players and emerging talents, and establish the consistency required to compete for international honours.
Brazil’s football ambitions remain enormous, with the country determined to add another World Cup title to its record five championships.
However, achieving that objective will require more than individual talent. The Seleção must develop a balanced team, improve their performances against top opposition and demonstrate the mental strength needed to progress through difficult knockout matches.
Ancelotti’s reputation suggests that he has the experience to handle such demands, but his success will ultimately be judged by the results Brazil produces on the pitch.
For now, Ronaldinho has made his position clear, backing the Italian despite the criticism and disappointment surrounding Brazil’s recent performances.
Whether Ancelotti can justify that confidence and deliver the success expected of him remains one of the biggest questions surrounding Brazilian football.
With the next World Cup forming a major part of his long-term assignment, the pressure will be on the former Real Madrid manager to turn Ronaldinho’s confidence into tangible success.
