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Despite not taking charge of a single match yet, Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil reign is already facing significant problems
Carlo Ancelotti's switch from Real Madrid to Brazil’s national team is under FIFA’s microscope as the world football’s governing body looks over the legality of the move.
With the Italian set to make his managerial debut for the Seleção, the focus has suddenly shifted off the pitch, and onto a controversial deal that could have breached FIFA regulations.
FIFA question mystery payments in Ancelotti deal
At the centre of the brewing storm is Diego Fernandes, a Brazilian businessman with close ties to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), but with no official status.
Despite not being a registered FIFA agent, Fernandes reportedly acted as a key intermediary in the talks between Ancelotti and the CBF.
So much so, in fact, that his name is actually written into Ancelotti’s contract, and he allegedly pocketed a cool €1.2 million commission for brokering the deal.
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Now, FIFA wants answers. As reported by Sport and UOL Esporte, the world football governing body has formally requested that the CBF explain Fernandes' role and justify the hefty commission, all before June 4, just one day before Ancelotti's debut against Ecuador.
Ancelotti faces tricky road in Brazil
While the saga was ongoing, Ancelotti and Real Madrid denied a possible departure, while Brazil turned on the charm offensive in the background.
With Fernandes seen frequently at the Santiago Bernabéu, it was clear something was brewing. And now that Ancelotti is officially Brazil's boss, the challenge on the pitch begins.
His debut is a tough trip to high-altitude Quito against second-place Ecuador, followed by a clash with Paraguay, a team unbeaten under Gustavo Alfaro and level on points with Brazil.
With just a year to prepare for the World Cup, Ancelotti has little time to whip Brazil into shape, and now, must contend with plenty of off-field drama as well.
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