Following Brazil`s significant 4-1 defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifying, rumors suggest the Brazilian federation is considering appointing Carlo Ancelotti as their new manager this summer, after Brazil fired head coach Dorival Junior. This idea initially surfaced in early 2023 when Brazil aimed to recruit Ancelotti for the 2024 Copa America. However, Ancelotti renewed his contract with Real Madrid, committing to the Spanish club.
The prospect of hiring a highly decorated manager like Ancelotti is still being discussed. It would be notable, as Brazil has historically preferred Brazilian coaches, especially for World Cup victories. While it`s traditionally common for national teams to be led by domestic managers, recent examples like Thomas Tuchel for England and Mauricio Pochettino for the USMNT indicate a growing trend of federations seeking top coaches globally.
With many national team positions filled, let`s consider ideal European coach pairings for USA, Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, and Uruguay:
Argentina: Pep Guardiola
Lionel Scaloni has achieved remarkable success with Argentina, winning the Copa America in 2021 and 2024, and most importantly, the 2022 World Cup against France. Despite contemplating leaving in 2023, Scaloni remains in charge and will lead Argentina to the 2026 World Cup.
Pep Guardiola, currently contracted with Manchester City until 2027, has previously expressed interest in managing a national team before potentially retiring. Although reuniting Guardiola with Lionel Messi might be unlikely due to Messi`s age, Guardiola is among the few coaches who could succeed a winning manager like Scaloni, who ushered in a golden era for Argentina.
Guardiola`s managerial style and Spanish language fluency make him an excellent fit for Argentina. Imagine Guardiola coaching Argentina at El Monumental in Buenos Aires – an iconic moment for football.
United States: Jose Mourinho
Jose Mourinho is a relevant candidate in coaching discussions. He was close to managing Portugal in January 2023 but chose to stay with AS Roma after their 2022 UEFA Conference League victory. Mourinho has a strong connection with the United States, often holding preseason camps at UCLA with Chelsea and Inter. For the USMNT, Mourinho`s task would be similar to his Roma role: elevating the team. While Pochettino is currently leading the U.S., a poor performance at the World Cup could lead to changes.
Mexico: Mikel Arteta
Mexico, co-hosting the 2026 World Cup, needs to take a significant step forward. Current manager Javier Aguirre has had a positive start, winning the Concacaf Nations League. However, a coach like Arsenal`s Mikel Arteta would be ideal. Arteta`s youth, strong football philosophy, and focus on youth development align well with Mexico`s long-term needs.
Brazil: Jurgen Klopp
While Carlo Ancelotti is Brazil`s top choice, Jurgen Klopp is another strong European candidate. Brazil needs an experienced manager capable of managing both established stars and emerging talents. Klopp, after leaving Liverpool and becoming Red Bull Group`s global soccer head, is well-suited. Red Bull owns the Brazilian club Red Bull Bragantino. Despite reports linking Klopp to the German national team job, Red Bull has denied any release clause. If Klopp returns to management, a national team role seems more probable than a club position.
