Carlo Ancelotti hasn't even officially taken over as head coach of the Brazilian national team, yet his potential appointment is already stirring controversy. Brazil’s president, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, one of the most influential figures in the country, has publicly expressed his disapproval of the CBF’s decision to bring in a foreign coach to lead the "Seleção."

In recent remarks, Lula questioned why Brazil needed to look abroad when there are qualified local coaches available. “Honestly, I have nothing against a foreign coach leading the national team, but I believe there are Brazilian coaches capable of doing the job just as well or better,” he said.

A Radical Proposal: Only Players from the Brasileirão

The president went even further by suggesting an idea that has sparked debate across the country. Lula proposed that the national team call up only the top performers from the Brasileirão, excluding high-profile stars based in Europe such as Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Marquinhos, Raphinha, Endrick, and Savinho. “I suggested to the president of the CBF that we do an experiment: call up the 22 best players from the domestic league and see what happens. I believe they could perform just as well or even better,” he said.

This idea clashes directly with Ancelotti’s plans. One of his first moves is reportedly bringing Casemiro back into the squad for the upcoming call-up on May 26. He has also reached out to Kaká to include him on his coaching staff.

It’s not the first time Lula has voiced skepticism about the Italian manager. When the initial rumors of Ancelotti’s arrival began circulating, Lula commented, “He’s never been the head coach of Italy. Why doesn’t he fix his own country’s problems—they didn’t even qualify for the 2022 World Cup?”

Despite his criticisms, Lula did acknowledge Ancelotti’s impressive résumé. “He’s a great coach and was a great player. I hope that, with his strategic and tactical knowledge, he can help our national team improve, especially now that we’re not producing the kind of talent we once had,” he added.

On the other hand, voices like Dunga, captain of Brazil’s 1994 World Cup-winning team, have supported the CBF’s choice. “Ancelotti is a coach whose qualities need no explanation. Now everyone needs to help him adapt quickly. The CBF has brought in a big name,” the former midfielder said.

So, even before officially taking over, Ancelotti is already dividing opinion in Brazil and will have to navigate not only sporting challenges but also political and cultural ones as he steps into one of football’s most demanding jobs.