Brazil will have a new head coach leading up to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Dorival Junior has been dismissed after Brazil`s 4-1 defeat to Argentina in a World Cup qualifier. This loss is Brazil`s heaviest ever in qualifying matches. While they are currently fourth in the standings, there`s a real possibility Brazil could fail to qualify for the World Cup, as they are only seven points ahead of eighth-placed Bolivia.
Brazil, who last won the World Cup in the United States in 1994, faces high expectations despite not reaching a World Cup final since 2002. Following Tite`s departure after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Brazil is now preparing to appoint their third coach since then.
The Brazilian Football Confederation announced that Dorival Júnior will no longer manage the Brazilian National Team. The board expressed gratitude and wished him success in his future career, stating they will immediately begin searching for a replacement.
The decision was made after a meeting between CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues and Dorival, concluding in their separation. This move could potentially pave the way for Carlo Ancelotti`s hiring, whom the CBF has previously attempted to recruit.
Other potential replacements include Flamengo`s manager, Felipe Luis. Flamengo president Luiz Eduardo Baptista addressed this possibility, noting Filipe`s promising future and potential to coach the national team later, but suggesting it might not be the right time for him to take on this challenge.
Despite recent setbacks, Brazil`s squad possesses enough talent for improvement. A new coach is needed before their upcoming match against Ecuador in June. With just over a year until the World Cup, these next days are critical as Brazil initiates another reset.
