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Is Carlo Ancelotti’s appointment the World Cup-winning move Brazil have been waiting for? It certainly feels like they’re due another triumph.

In the opening episode of The Sopranos, James Gandolfini’s iconic character Tony Soprano, the New Jersey mob boss, sits in therapy and asks: “Whatever happened to Gary Cooper? The strong, silent type. That was an American. He wasn’t in touch with his feelings. He just did what he had to do.”

Gary Cooper, the Hollywood star known for his calm, understated performances and quiet masculinity, becomes a symbolic figure throughout The Sopranos — often cited as one of television’s greatest series. Tony’s fascination with Cooper, and with the idea of the composed man in control, is a deliberate irony crafted by show creator David Chase. Tony himself is impulsive, volatile, and emotionally explosive — everything Cooper was not.

If Tony Soprano were around to watch this summer’s World Cup — held just a short 20–25 minute drive (traffic permitting) from his fictional North Caldwell home — he’d likely admire Carlo Ancelotti.

“Don Carlo” embodies calm authority. His leadership style grants freedom to players rather than binding them to rigid tactical systems. Where Tony Soprano vents his fury by flipping a coffee table, Ancelotti merely raises his left eyebrow — and yet, both gestures carry the same impact.

Ancelotti’s managerial record speaks for itself. He remains the only coach to have won league titles in all five of Europe’s major leagues and is the first — and so far the only — manager to claim five UEFA Champions League titles. Across his career, he has accumulated more than 30 major trophies, a testament to his enduring excellence.

Now, he steps onto the international stage once again. It’s a return to North America, where in 1994 he stood alongside Arrigo Sacchi in the blistering heat of Pasadena as Italy’s assistant coach, watching Roberto Baggio’s penalty soar over the bar in the World Cup final. Ironically, at the time of writing, Italy won’t be at this tournament.

Ancelotti’s new role as Brazil’s manager could prove a tactical masterstroke. His rapport with several Brazilian stars is already strong, and he has guided the Seleção toward a more balanced, pragmatic approach — one that values discipline and resilience over pure flair. This is a dimension Brazil have often missed in recent tournaments but will desperately need to succeed this summer.

As fans prepare for another thrilling tournament, one can imagine the line: “Woke up this morning... got Brazil a sixth star.”