The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has officially dismissed Dorival Junior from his role as the national team’s head coach.
In a statement released on Friday, the CBF announced: “The board wishes him success in his continued career. From now on, the CBF will work to find a replacement.”
Dorival’s departure comes in the wake of Brazil’s crushing 4-1 loss to arch-rivals Argentina in a World Cup qualifier, a historic defeat that proved to be the final straw for the 62-year-old manager.
Appointed in January 2024, Dorival’s stint with the Selecao was under intense scrutiny from the start, with reports suggesting that the CBF had initially set their sights on Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. Prior to taking charge of the national team, Dorival had enjoyed success with Flamengo, leading the Rio-based club to Copa Libertadores glory.
However, his time at the helm of Brazil saw mixed results. The team won just seven of 16 matches under his leadership, placing fourth in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings with 21 points—ten behind leaders Argentina. Brazil also suffered an early Copa America exit last year, losing to Uruguay in the quarter-finals. Despite this, many expected Dorival to remain in charge until at least the summer.
The 4-1 thrashing in Buenos Aires was unprecedented; Brazil had never before conceded four goals in a World Cup qualifier. With the team on track for their worst-ever qualifying campaign, the CBF opted to take decisive action.
Ancelotti Back in the Frame?
According to The Athletic, Brazil remains keen on appointing Carlo Ancelotti for the 2026 World Cup. The CBF has reportedly reached out to the Italian coach multiple times, including in 2022 and 2023, only for Real Madrid to extend his contract. Ancelotti, who has worked with several Brazilian stars such as Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Eder Militao, has yet to confirm his long-term future with Los Blancos.
With crucial World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay approaching in June, the CBF will now intensify their search for a new head coach to steer Brazil back on track.
Fan Reactions and Potential Successors
The decision to sack Dorival Junior has sparked mixed reactions among fans and pundits. While some believe it was a necessary move given Brazil’s poor form, others argue that he should have been given more time to implement his vision. Many supporters have taken to social media, calling for an experienced manager who can restore Brazil’s dominance on the world stage.
Aside from Ancelotti, other names being considered include former Brazil boss Tite, AS Roma manager José Mourinho, and Fernando Diniz, who briefly served as interim head coach before Dorival’s appointment. The coming weeks will be crucial as the CBF evaluates its options for the future.
