Brazil`s national football team will have a new manager leading them into the 2026 World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This change comes after the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) decided to part ways with Dorival Junior. The decision was made following a significant 4-1 defeat to Argentina in a World Cup qualifying match. This loss marked a historic low for Brazil, as it was the first time they conceded four goals in a qualifying game. While Brazil is currently in fourth place in the qualifying standings, their position for World Cup qualification is not entirely secure, sitting only seven points ahead of Bolivia.
Brazil, a nation with high expectations in football and a history of success including winning the 1994 World Cup in the USA, has not reached a World Cup final since 2002. Dorival Junior`s dismissal means Brazil will be searching for their third head coach since the departure of Tite after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
In an official statement, the CBF announced, `The Brazilian Football Confederation informs that coach Dorival Júnior is no longer the head of the Brazilian National Team.` The statement continued, `The board appreciates his professionalism and wishes him well in his future endeavors. The CBF will immediately begin the process of finding his replacement.`
This decision to remove Dorival Junior was finalized after a meeting between CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues and the coach. It is speculated that this move could pave the way for the CBF to once again attempt to hire Carlo Ancelotti, a coach they have previously pursued.
Other potential candidates to take over the Brazil national team include Felipe Luis, currently the manager of Flamengo. Luiz Eduardo Baptista, president of Flamengo, has commented on the possibility of Luis taking the Brazil job. Baptista stated, `I believe Filipe has a promising future and I am confident he will eventually coach the Brazilian national team. However, in my opinion, given his age and current career stage, it might not be the right time for him to take on this role. If he were my son or younger brother, I would advise him against it at this moment. These are personal choices in life. Based on my understanding of Filipe, I would be surprised if he accepted this challenge now.`
Despite recent setbacks, the Brazilian squad possesses considerable talent. To improve their performance, the priority is to appoint a new coach before their next match against Ecuador in June. With the World Cup just over a year away, every day is crucial for Brazil as they initiate another rebuilding phase.
