In a significant shake-up for the Brazilian national football team, Dorival Júnior has been dismissed as head coach following a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Argentina in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers. The announcement came after a meeting on March 28, 2025, between Júnior and Ednaldo Rodrigues, the president of the Confederação Brasileira de Futebol (CBF), where the decision was finalized amid growing pressure on the coach.
Dorival Júnior, who took over the reins in January 2024, leaves the position having managed the team for 16 matches, securing seven wins, two draws, and suffering seven losses. His tenure was marked by inconsistency and a performance that fell short of the expectations set by both fans and the CBF.
The decision to part ways with Júnior was largely influenced by the team's poor showing, particularly the recent loss to Argentina, which was described as one of the worst defeats in Brazil's qualifying history, drawing comparisons to the infamous 7-1 loss against Germany in the 2014 World Cup. This defeat intensified calls for his dismissal, with players like Vinícius Júnior reportedly voicing their concerns and urging for changes ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
During his time with the national team, Júnior's record included only six wins in 14 matches during the qualifiers, which led to a growing discontent among fans and media alike. The Brazilian side currently sits in fourth place in the qualifying standings, trailing ten points behind Argentina, which further exacerbated the scrutiny on Júnior's leadership.
The CBF is now on the hunt for a new coach who can revitalize the squad and restore Brazil's footballing prestige. Among the names being floated as potential replacements are Jorge Jesus, currently managing Al-Hilal, and Abel Ferreira of Palmeiras. Notably, Carlo Ancelotti, the Real Madrid coach, has emerged as a top candidate, although he has publicly stated that he remains committed to his current club.
Jorge Jesus, who has garnered attention due to his successful stint with Flamengo, is seen as a viable option, especially with his contract at Al-Hilal nearing its end. However, his candidacy is complicated by reported discontent from star player Neymar, who has expressed reservations about Jesus taking the helm. Neymar's relationship with Jesus soured during their time together at Al-Hilal, where the Portuguese coach made comments regarding the forward's fitness that did not sit well with him.
As the CBF navigates this transitional phase, the organization is under pressure to make a swift and effective decision on the next head coach, especially with the World Cup looming on the horizon. The stakes are high, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the announcement of who will lead the Seleção into the next chapter.
With the Brazilian national team at a crossroads, the upcoming decisions made by the CBF will be crucial in determining the future direction of one of football's most storied teams. The choice of coach could either reignite the passion of the Brazilian football fans or lead to further disappointment if the right candidate is not found.
