As Brazil prepares for a bold new chapter under Carlo Ancelotti’s leadership, a three-word response from Ballon d’Or winner and Milan icon Kaka has sparked fresh speculation. The former playmaker, once the heartbeat of both club and country, has given his clearest indication yet that he could return to the Seleção — not as a player, but in a vital supporting role.
Since retiring in 2017 after a stint with Orlando City in MLS, Kaka has taken deliberate steps to stay involved in soccer. Far from choosing the pundit’s route, the 43-year-old has committed himself to preparing for life behind the scenes. From academic achievements to hands-on training, his transformation from maestro to manager-in-waiting is no longer just a concept.
“I stopped playing in 2017. Since then, I have wanted to prepare myself. I took sports business courses at Harvard in the United States, I took a coaching course at the CBF [Brazilian Soccer Confederation],” the 2007 Ballon d’Or winner explained in a recent appearance at the Kings League final at Allianz Parque.
And then came that moment — the three words that added fuel to the fire. When asked directly about joining Ancelotti’s Brazil setup, Kaka didn’t offer a denial or a vague answer. Instead, he simply said: “I am ready.” Then, he added: “I have experience with the national team, the World Cup. If the opportunity arises, I am ready to return to serve the Brazilian national team.”
Ricardo Kaká on IG welcoming Ancelotti. 🇧🇷
His résumé speaks volumes. Three World Cups, over 15 years representing Brazil, and a decorated club career make Kaka one of the most respected voices in Brazilian soccer today. But beyond credentials, it is his emotional connection with the national team — and with Carlo Ancelotti — that makes this possible reunion so tantalizing.
Kaka and Ancelotti: Glorious past
Few partnerships in modern soccer have been as elegant and fruitful as that of Kaka and Ancelotti at AC Milan. Together, they swept the world in the mid-2000s, collecting titles like Serie A (2003-04), the Champions League (2006-07), the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup. It was under Ancelotti’s calm stewardship that Kaka reached the pinnacle of his career, claiming the Ballon d’Or in 2007.
Although their brief reunion at Real Madrid years later didn’t reach the same heights, the mutual admiration has remained strong. Kaka has been vocal about his excitement over the Italian’s appointment to lead Brazil into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the move as transformative for the Seleção.
“I am happy with his arrival,” the 43-year-old told Caze TV, “He is at the end of a cycle at Real and wants to conclude his story there in the best possible way. He is very focused, then he will think about the national team.”
