Carlo Ancelotti has declared that Brazil are moving in the right direction ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, expressing confidence that A Seleção have turned a corner after a turbulent period for Brazilian football.

The experienced Italian manager, who took charge of the five-time world champions, pointed to recent improvements in the team's performances as evidence that his project is gaining momentum. Ancelotti acknowledged the criticism that has surrounded the national team but remained firm in his belief that progress is being made.

Signs of improvement

Brazil have faced significant scrutiny over recent results, with fans and pundits questioning whether the squad has the quality to compete at the highest level in North America in 2026. Ancelotti, however, pushed back against that narrative, arguing that the groundwork being laid now will bear fruit when it matters most.

The Italian tactician has been working to instil a clear system and identity into a squad brimming with individual talent. Balancing the demands of club football — where many of Brazil's stars perform at the elite European level — with international cohesion has been one of his central challenges.

Optimism with caveats

While Ancelotti's confidence is notable, questions remain about whether the improvements are deep enough. Brazil have not won the World Cup since 2002, and the pressure on this generation of players to end that drought is immense. The 2026 edition, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, represents perhaps the most consequential opportunity this squad will have.

Critics point to inconsistencies in Brazil's performances and a lack of the dominant, free-flowing football that once defined A Seleção on the world stage. Whether Ancelotti's measured optimism reflects genuine progress or simply managerial confidence remains a question supporters will be watching closely in the months ahead.

With the tournament approaching, the pressure on Ancelotti to deliver results — and a style of play that excites a football-mad nation — will only intensify. For now, the coach insists Brazil are on the right track. The coming qualifying fixtures and friendlies will offer a clearer verdict.