Brazil`s national football team will have a new coach leading them into the 2026 World Cup in North America. This decision comes after the departure of Dorival Junior, triggered by a significant 4-1 defeat against Argentina in a World Cup qualifying match. This loss marked a historic low, being the most goals Brazil has ever conceded in a qualifying game. While currently fourth in the qualifying standings, the team`s position is not secure, as they are only seven points ahead of Bolivia, who are in eighth place, raising concerns about Brazil`s potential absence from the upcoming World Cup.
For a nation that celebrated a World Cup victory in the United States back in 1994, expectations for Brazil are consistently high. Despite their rich football history, the Seleção have not reached a World Cup final since 2002. Dorival Junior`s exit means Brazil is now searching for their third head coach since the departure of Tite after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
In an official announcement, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) stated, `The Brazilian Football Confederation announces that coach Dorival Júnior will no longer lead the Brazilian National Team. The board expresses gratitude to the professional and wishes him success in his future endeavors. The CBF will immediately begin the process of finding a replacement.`
This decision was reached after discussions between CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues and Dorival, resulting in a mutual agreement to part ways. It`s speculated that this move could pave the way for the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti, a coach the CBF has previously attempted to recruit.
Other potential candidates for the coaching position include Flamengo`s manager, Felipe Luis. Flamengo president Luiz Eduardo Baptista commented on Friday regarding this possibility.
`I believe Filipe has a promising career ahead, and I am confident he will eventually coach the Brazilian national team. However, in my opinion, considering his age and current career stage, taking on the national team now might not be the right move. If he were my son or younger brother, that would be my advice. These are personal choices. Based on what I know of Filipe, I would be surprised if he accepted this challenge at this moment.`
Despite recent setbacks, the Brazilian squad possesses sufficient talent to improve their performance. To achieve this, a new coach will need to be appointed before their next match against Ecuador in June. With the World Cup just over a year away, time is of the essence as Brazil aims to reset and regain its competitive edge.
Dominic Ashworth