April 23 – Former Brazil coach Tite has announced that he is taking an indefinite break from his professional career to address physical and mental health concerns.
Tite, who is 63, was expected to sign a contract with Corinthians, the Sao Paulo club where he made his name winning several titles, including the 2012 Copa Libertadores and the 2012 Club World Cup.
He was expected to replace Ramón Díaz at Corinthians, but Brazilian media reported that Tite suffered an anxiety attack the night before he was to fly to Sao Paulo.
“I have to understand that, as a human being, I can be vulnerable. Admitting to that will certainly make me stronger,” said Tite.
“I love what I do and I will continue to, but as I spoke to my family and noticed the signs that my body was giving me I decided to do what is best now and interrupt my career to take care of myself as long as I need. There was an ongoing conversation with Corinthians, but it will have to be halted due to a difficult but necessary decision.”
Last September, Tite was dismissed by Flamengo after having been in charge less than a year. It was his first role following Brazil’s World Cup quarter-final exit in 2022.
Tite served as national team manager from 2016 to 2022, but, twice, the Seleçao departed the global finals in the last eight. Tite took a break following Qatar, but on his return to management with Flamengo he never matched club or fan expectations.
In a statement, Corinthians confirmed that “the parties were very close to reaching an agreement and the coach was expected to sign the contract and take charge of the team’s work this Tuesday.”
Corinthians added that they “wish a speedy recovery to the coach”.
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