The recent defeat of Corinthians to Fluminense, a 2-0 setback at the Neo Química Arena, has sent ripples through the club, signaling the potential end of Ramón Díaz's tenure as head coach. Just a month after leading the team to victory in the Paulista Championship, the Argentine coach now faces the prospect of being dismissed. Club president Augusto Melo has scheduled a crucial meeting for Thursday, April 17, 2025, to discuss Díaz's future, amid growing pressure from fans and the team’s disappointing performance in the Brazilian Championship.
Since clinching the Paulista title, Corinthians has struggled to maintain their momentum, managing only a solitary victory against Vasco, alongside draws against Bahia and América de Cali, and losses to Huracán, Palmeiras, and now Fluminense. This troubling run of form has raised questions about the tactical direction under Díaz, with players and fans alike expressing dissatisfaction.
Adding to the turmoil, star player Memphis Depay openly criticized the team’s tactical difficulties in an interview on Wednesday, April 16, 2025. His comments have further complicated Díaz's position, as they highlight the lack of progress and cohesion within the squad. "The structure is not working, and we need to evolve as a team," Memphis stated, underscoring the urgency for change.
As the situation develops, the Corinthians board is reportedly eyeing Dorival Júnior as a potential replacement for Díaz. Dorival, who was recently let go from the Brazilian national team, is seen as a prime candidate due to his extensive experience and previous success with other top clubs, including Flamengo and São Paulo. The club is keen to secure his services, especially given that he is currently available on the market.
Internally, Dorival is viewed as the ideal choice to steer the team back on track. His proven track record in Brazilian football and ability to instill a solid tactical structure make him a favorite among the club’s hierarchy. Furthermore, the board is eager to finalize the transition swiftly, aiming to have Dorival in place before the team’s next fixture to ensure a fresh start.
However, the competition for Dorival's services is heating up. Both São Paulo and Grêmio are also interested in hiring him, with Grêmio recently parting ways with coach Gustavo Quinteros after a disappointing 4-1 defeat to Mirassol. Dorival's financial security, with approximately R$ 15 million guaranteed from the CBF until the World Cup, adds another layer to the negotiation, as he is set to earn R$ 1 million per month until then.
Despite the swirling rumors, Ramón Díaz was present at the training center on Thursday morning, leading a session with reserve players. As he left the facility, he downplayed the speculation regarding his exit, insisting to reporters that the information circulating was inaccurate. Yet, the atmosphere within the club is one of urgency, as members of the board acknowledge that a change is necessary to alter the course of the current season.
Since his appointment in July 2024 following the dismissal of António Oliveira, Díaz has overseen 60 matches, achieving 31 wins, 16 draws, and 13 losses. While the Paulista Championship victory provided a temporary reprieve from criticism, the subsequent failures in both the Brazilian Championship and the Copa Sudamericana have intensified scrutiny on his leadership.
As the board prepares for the meeting that could seal Díaz's fate, the urgency to address the team's dismal form is palpable. With the fans growing increasingly impatient and the club's ambitions at stake, it remains to be seen whether the management can secure Dorival Júnior's commitment and initiate a much-needed turnaround.
In light of these developments, the Corinthians faithful are left wondering what the future holds for their team. Will Dorival Júnior take the helm, or will the club continue to struggle under Ramón Díaz? As the hours tick away, the answers may soon unfold, and all eyes will be on the club’s next steps in this pivotal moment of the season.
