In a dramatic turn of events in Brazilian football, Dorival Júnior has emerged as the frontrunner to take over the managerial role at Corinthians following the impending dismissal of Ramón Díaz. The decision comes after a string of disappointing results, including a recent 1-0 defeat to Fluminense, which has left the team struggling in both the Campeonato Brasileiro and the Copa Sul-Americana.
Corinthians confirmed they are finalizing the details to part ways with Díaz, who, despite leading the team to a Paulista Championship victory, faced immense pressure due to the team’s underwhelming performance. The Argentine coach’s record in the current Brazilian season stands at a mere four points from four matches, consisting of one win, one draw, and two losses. Additionally, the team’s early exit from the pre-Libertadores and their lackluster start in the South American competition have contributed to the mounting pressure.
Meanwhile, Dorival Júnior, who has been without a club since his recent departure from the Brazilian National Team, is viewed as a highly favorable option within the Corinthians hierarchy. Having previously managed top clubs such as Santos, Palmeiras, and São Paulo, the 62-year-old coach brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to the table. His tenure with the Brazilian national team saw him achieve seven victories, seven draws, and only two losses across 16 matches, although his campaign ended with a quarter-final exit in the 2024 Copa América.
Sources indicate that Dorival has already reached a verbal agreement with Corinthians, and the club is expected to make an official announcement regarding Díaz's departure and Júnior's hiring imminently. The anticipation surrounding this coaching change has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike, with many believing that Dorival’s appointment could signal a turning point for the struggling club.
As the situation unfolds, César Sampaio has taken over as interim coach at Santos following the dismissal of Pedro Caixinha, who was let go after a disappointing start to the season that included two losses and a draw. Santos is currently exploring other managerial options, with Dorival Júnior initially being a top candidate. However, he declined the opportunity to lead Santos, expressing his gratitude for the offer but stating that he was not ready to accept a new role at this time.
Despite his decision to turn down Santos, Dorival's name continues to circulate as a potential candidate for various clubs, and his connection to Corinthians has only strengthened in recent days. With his extensive experience in managing high-profile teams in Brazil, he is well-equipped to take on the challenges that come with leading Corinthians.
In the meantime, Ramón Díaz remains at the helm, conducting training sessions as he awaits the club's final decision. On Thursday morning, he oversaw a regenerative training session at the Dr. Joaquim Grava Training Center, but the atmosphere surrounding his position remains tense as speculation swirls about his imminent departure.
Corinthians is set to face Sport in their next match on Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 4 PM, and with the pressure mounting, the outcome of this encounter could further influence the club's decision regarding Díaz's future.
The developments at Corinthians are not just about a coaching change; they reflect the broader dynamics of Brazilian football, where managerial stability is often fleeting. The club's leadership is keenly aware that the right appointment could reinvigorate the team and restore confidence among fans, who have been left disappointed by recent performances.
As the clock ticks down to Saturday's match, all eyes will be on Corinthians and their decision-making process. Will they finalize the hiring of Dorival Júnior and embark on a new chapter, or will they give Ramón Díaz one last chance to turn things around? Only time will tell, but the stakes are undeniably high.
