The AC Milan Connection Reignites: Kaka Eyes Coaching Role Under Ancelotti with Brazil
The beautiful game has a poetic way of bringing people back together—and few partnerships in football have been as memorable or as fondly regarded as the one between Kaka and Carlo Ancelotti. Now, nearly two decades since their dazzling days together at AC Milan, it seems fate may be setting the stage for a reunion. And not in Europe this time, but on home soil—with Brazil’s national team.
With Carlo Ancelotti preparing to say goodbye to Real Madrid at the close of the 2024–25 season, attention has quickly shifted to his next venture: taking over the Brazil national team in what promises to be a fascinating chapter of his illustrious managerial career.
But the plot has thickened with a revelation from none other than Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite—or as the world knows him, Kaka. The Ballon d’Or-winning Brazilian has made it clear: if Ancelotti calls, he’s ready to answer.
What Happened: Kaka’s Intent to Join Brazil’s Coaching Setup
Speaking recently on Caze TV, Kaka shared his desire to return to the footballing fold—not as a player, but this time in a suit, standing beside the manager who helped shape his career.
“If the opportunity arises, I’m ready to return to the Selecao. I’m prepared,” Kaka said, speaking with conviction and enthusiasm. “Since 2017 I’ve wanted to prepare myself. I took business courses in sports at Harvard, I took the coaching course at CBF, and I have experience in the national team, in the World Cup.”
The 43-year-old retired from professional football in 2017 after a career that saw him grace some of the game’s grandest stages. While he’s remained relatively low-key since hanging up his boots, it’s clear he’s been quietly plotting a return—this time, from the touchline.
The Bigger Picture: Ancelotti’s Brazilian Adventure
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed earlier this year that Carlo Ancelotti will take over the national team after completing his duties with Real Madrid. The veteran Italian tactician, whose club coaching career spans over three decades, is set to embrace international football for the first time—a final challenge in a glittering résumé.
Ancelotti’s final game in charge of Los Blancos will come against Real Sociedad, in what will mark the end of an era. While Madrid fell short in La Liga this season, his legacy in Spain remains intact. From Champions League triumphs to nurturing elite talent, Ancelotti leaves behind another chapter of success—and now steps into a role filled with both expectation and opportunity.
The CBF’s appointment of Ancelotti was met with enthusiasm, not just because of his credentials but because of the potential it brings for revitalizing Brazil’s tactical structure. And in that vision, Kaka believes he can play a role.
Why Kaka? More Than Just a Nostalgic Appointment
At first glance, Kaka joining Ancelotti might seem like a feel-good story—a romantic reunion of mentor and protégé. But scratch the surface, and it’s clear there’s more substance than sentiment here.
Since his retirement, Kaka hasn’t just been on a beach somewhere enjoying the perks of footballing fame. He’s gone back to school—literally—taking courses at Harvard to deepen his understanding of sports management and coaching. He’s also completed the CBF coaching license, showing a clear intent to eventually work in the game at the highest level.
“It’s not just about being a former player,” Kaka added. “It’s about understanding the dynamics of coaching, the psychology of elite athletes, and being able to contribute to the team beyond just tactics.”
Combine that with his experience of having played for Brazil in three World Cups, including their run to the quarter-finals in 2006 and 2010, and it’s easy to see how his perspective could be invaluable within the Selecao setup.
The Milan Memories: Why This Reunion Feels Right
For football romantics, the idea of Kaka and Ancelotti working together again immediately brings to mind those glorious AC Milan nights at the San Siro—most notably the 2007 UEFA Champions League victory, where Kaka was at the peak of his powers and Ancelotti pulled the strings from the touchline.
The mutual respect between the two has always been evident. Ancelotti was the manager who got the best out of Kaka, giving him the freedom to express himself while still integrating him into a structured, tactically sound system.
That respect has clearly endured. For Kaka, this isn’t just about reconnecting with a familiar face—it’s about learning from the best.
What’s Next: Selecao Rebuilds With an Eye on 2026
Brazil’s recent performances have been patchy by their sky-high standards. A disappointing 2022 World Cup exit, followed by managerial uncertainty and underwhelming form in South American qualifiers, has left fans calling for change.
Enter Carlo Ancelotti—a man known for steadying ships and turning good teams into great ones. With a calm demeanor, tactical brilliance, and an ability to manage egos, he seems the ideal choice to reinvigorate Brazil’s talented but underperforming squad.
Adding Kaka into the mix brings not only experience and insight but also bridges the generational gap between Brazil’s legendary past and its promising future. Imagine the inspiration for young players like Endrick, Rodrygo, or Andrey Santos, knowing that a legend like Kaka is guiding them, just as he once guided attacks from midfield.
Final Thoughts: A Reunion Worth Rooting For
Football often deals in clichés, but sometimes they ring true—this really does feel like a full-circle moment. Kaka, the golden boy of Brazilian football in the 2000s, returning to serve his country in a new capacity. And Ancelotti, a master of reinvention, taking on a bold new challenge at the international level.
There’s no official confirmation yet on whether Kaka will indeed be appointed to Ancelotti’s Brazil staff. But if the will is there—from both sides—it seems only a matter of time.
And if it happens? It might just be the start of a new golden era for Brazilian football—led by two men who already know what it means to win, to inspire, and to represent their colours with pride.
