
(foto: Getty Images)
A Brazilian court removed CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues, who appointed Carlo Ancelotti. Despite the shake-up, the interim president says Ancelotti’s position is secure.
It’s never dull in Brazilian football. Just as Carlo Ancelotti prepares to begin his historic journey as head coach of the Brazilian national team, the man who brought him in—Ednaldo Rodrigues—has been removed from office by court order.
The decision by the court means that Rodrigues is no longer the president of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF). However, the story is far from over. Rodrigues is expected to appeal to the Supreme Court, as he has done in the past to stay in power. In the meantime, Fernando Sarney is serving as the acting president of the federation.
So what does this political shake-up mean for Ancelotti, who is officially taking over Brazil this month? According to Sarney, nothing will change—at least for now.
“Carlo Ancelotti was not my decision, but for now we do not intend to change it. Let's leave it as it is. The atmosphere is good, the Brazilian football public has been very supportive of the appointment of Ancelotti and therefore I see no reason to change this decision now,” said Sarney.
The Italian manager also enjoys strong support from the players. Ancelotti has worked with many members of the current Brazil squad during his coaching career, and there is genuine excitement within the dressing room about his arrival.
Despite the legal drama and uncertainty within the CBF, Ancelotti’s project appears safe—for now. But with Brazilian football politics involved, anything can happen.