Before managing his first game with the Brazilian national team, Carlo Ancelotti is already breathing Brazilian football — not from the sidelines, but from the stands. The Italian tactician was spotted at the Nilton Santos Stadium, watching the CONMEBOL Libertadores 2025 clash between Botafogo and Universidad de Chile, a Group Stage match that marks the beginning of his local scouting journey.

A New Chapter Begins in Rio

According to ESPN Brasil, this was the first match Ancelotti attended in person since being officially presented as Brazil’s head coach. From his seat in the VIP box, he greeted Botafogo fans, posed for pictures, and even received a special No. 7 jersey in honor of club legend Garrincha.

But this is only the start. Ancelotti is on a mission to observe the domestic game closely. His scouting tour will continue on Wednesday, May 28, at the Maracanã, where Flamengo will face Deportivo Táchira. He’s also expected to be present at Corinthians vs Vitória on Sunday, June 1, in the Brasileirão.

Squad Announced, Debut Approaches

Ancelotti was officially introduced on Monday, May 26, at the CBF headquarters, where he held his first press conference and announced his debut call-up list.

Although no Botafogo players were included, seven players from Brazilian clubs made the cut:

• Hugo Souza (Corinthians)
• Estêvão (Palmeiras)
• Alex Sandro, Danilo, Léo Ortiz, Wesley, Gerson (Flamengo)

His first official match with the Seleção will take place on June 5 against Ecuador in Guayaquil, followed by a home game versus Paraguay on June 10 at the Neo Química Arena in São Paulo.