Jose Mourinho to rival Carlo Ancelotti for Brazil job

Jose Mourinho is reportedly set to challenge Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti for the Brazil national team role, following his inclusion on a four-man shortlist drawn up by the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF).

The CBF sacked Dorival Júnior after Brazil’s heavy 4-1 loss to arch-rivals Argentina in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

According to Brazilian outlet Globo, Mourinho, currently at Fenerbahce, is among the leading candidates to replace Júnior and lead Brazil in their quest to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

The shortlist also includes Ancelotti, Al Hilal manager Jorge Jesus, and Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira.

This group represents a mix of highly respected European managers and successful figures from South American football.

Ancelotti, who has long been admired by the CBF, has expressed interest in the Brazil job in the past. However, he has consistently stated that his current role at Real Madrid will be his last in management.

Ancelotti was approached by the Brazilian FA in both 2022 and 2023

Despite this, the CBF has not completely ruled out the possibility of securing the Italian’s services.

Meanwhile, Jesus is seen as the most likely candidate due to his experience with Brazilian clubs, particularly Flamengo, and his immediate availability.

Mourinho’s tenure at Fenerbahce has been turbulent.

Since arriving in Istanbul 10 months ago, the former Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Roma boss has frequently clashed with match officials, earning several touchline bans.

His team’s recent form has also been disappointing, with Fenerbahce eliminated from the Europa League by Rangers and knocked out of the Turkish Cup following a painful defeat to Galatasaray.

As a result, Mourinho is under increasing pressure, with Fenerbahce currently sitting second in the Turkish Super Lig, three points behind Galatasaray.

Fenerbahce’s upcoming clash with Sivasspor on Sunday is crucial for their Super Lig title hopes, and a victory could convince Mourinho to continue his stint in Turkey.