Ancelotti's divine mission: Brazil's new coach seeks blessing at Christ the Redeemer

In a powerful symbolic gesture that underscored his commitment to his new role, Carlo Ancelotti, the newly appointed coach of the Brazilian National Team, visited the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain this Saturday morning. The revered Italian tactician, who officially took the reins of the Seleção just days ago, embraced Brazilian culture and sought a spiritual blessing as he prepares to lead the five-time world champions towards their elusive sixth star.

• 

  Recommended

  Earthquake at the CBF: Ancelotti's contract controversy comes to light

Ancelotti, whose appointment has been met with immense anticipation and hope, arrived in Brazil earlier this week, officially being presented as the national team's coach on Monday, May 26. Since then, he has embarked on an intense agenda aimed at immersing himself in the country's rich footballing landscape and vibrant culture. His visit to Christ the Redeemer, a long-held personal desire, marks a significant step in this journey, signaling his intention to connect deeply with the heart and soul of Brazilian football.

Accompanied by Rodrigo Caetano, the General Executive Coordinator of Men's National Teams, and members of his technical staff, including assistants Paul Clement and Francesco Mauri, Ancelotti spent time at one of the world's most recognizable landmarks. The Italian was warmly received by both locals and tourists, who flocked to greet him and capture selfies with the man tasked with restoring Brazil to its former glory. This outpouring of affection highlighted the immediate bond Brazilians are forming with their new coach.

A poignant moment of the visit saw Ancelotti receive a blessing from Father Omar, the rector of the Christ the Redeemer Sanctuary. The spiritual leader engaged in conversation with the coach, even reportedly discussing a book to which the priest had contributed. This blessing at the feet of the colossal statue, a universal symbol of peace and welcome, carried immense weight, representing a collective wish for success and divine guidance for Ancelotti's challenging tenure. It’s a powerful acknowledgment of the deeply spiritual connection many Brazilians have with their national team and the hopes placed on its leadership.

For Ancelotti, whose illustrious club career includes a record five Champions League titles and domestic championships across Europe's top leagues, leading a national team presents a unique challenge, especially one with the historical weight and fervent expectations of Brazil. The visit to Christ the Redeemer not only allowed him to fulfill a personal aspiration but also served as a public demonstration of his respect for Brazilian traditions and his eagerness to fully embrace his new homeland.

As the spotlight now shifts from sightseeing to strategy, Ancelotti's first official training session with the Seleção is scheduled for Monday, June 2. His initial competitive tests will follow swiftly, with World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador on June 5 in Guayaquil and Paraguay on June 10 in São Paulo. These crucial matches will mark the true beginning of his quest to deliver Brazil's coveted sixth World Cup title. His visit to Christ the Redeemer may just be the first, and most symbolic, step in what Brazilians hope will be a divinely inspired journey to footballing immortality.