March 28 – In the aftermath of Brazil’s chastening 4-1 defeat against Argentina, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) will discuss the future of manager Dorival Junior today (Friday).
CBF boss Ednaldo Rodrigues will reportedly meet the coaching staff with speculation mounting over the future of Dorival Junior. Earlier this week, Brazil were outclassed by Argentina in World Cup qualifying.
“There’s always a lot of pressure, but I never run away from my responsibilities,” said Dorival. “I’m aware of what this loss means and everything that’s been going on. I really believe in my work, in the development of this process. It’s a complicated and difficult process, but I have no doubt that we’ll find a way out.”
“In all my years in football, this is perhaps the most delicate moment for me. But I’ve never given up.”
In 2024, Dorival Junior succeeded interim manager Fernando Diniz, but the former Sao Paulo manager has failed to rejuvenate Brazil with a quarter-final exit in last summer’s Copa America and disappointing results in the qualifiers, reaching a new nadir in Buenos Aires. Brazil have never missed out on World Cup qualification and with the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams, the Brazilians should still qualify for the finals.
However, to be competitive in the US, Canada and Mexico, Brazil will need a new elan. Once again the name of Carlo Ancelotti is being cited as a frontrunner for the role.
The CBF has previously flirted with the Italian manager, but he is under contract with Real Madrid. Brazil has never had a foreign manager.
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