Tite, the former technical director of the Brazilian national team, has announced a temporary suspension of his coaching career due to health concerns. On April 23, 2025, the 63-year-old coach revealed that he would be stepping away from the game to address both physical and mental health issues.
Having previously led Brazil to a Copa America title in 2019, Tite was on the verge of signing a contract with Corinthians, the club he famously guided to multiple championships, including the Copa Libertadores and the Club World Cup in 2012. However, local media reported that Tite suffered a mild stroke just before he was set to travel from his home in Rio de Janeiro to Sao Paulo for the contract signing.
In a heartfelt statement shared by his son Matheus on Instagram, Tite reflected on his current situation, stating, "I understand that there are opportunities that I must understand in it that I am, as a human being, may be vulnerable, and adversity will give me strength to confirm." He emphasized the importance of acknowledging one's vulnerabilities, suggesting that this recognition ultimately leads to greater strength.
Despite his passion for coaching, Tite shared that after consulting with his family and recognizing the signals his body was sending him, he decided that taking a break from his professional career was the best course of action. "I am concerned with what I do, and I will continue to do so, but after talking with my family and respecting the signals that my body sends me, I decided that the best thing I can do now is to take a break from my professional career to pay attention to myself for as long as possible," he added.
His decision comes after a challenging period in his career, having been dismissed from Flamengo last September after less than a year in charge. Since then, he has not taken up a new coaching role, although he was in advanced discussions with Corinthians following the firing of their previous coach, Ramon Diaz, just a week prior to his announcement.
Tite's departure from Flamengo was a surprise to many, as he was expected to build upon the team's success. His tenure with the national team from 2016 to 2022 saw Brazil reach significant heights, yet the disappointment of their exit in the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup still lingers.
Fans and analysts alike are now left to ponder what this means for Tite's future and for Corinthians, who had hoped to secure his services. The club confirmed that negotiations were ongoing, but they would be put on hold due to Tite's health decision, which he characterized as a difficult yet necessary choice.
As Tite takes this time to focus on his well-being, the football community stands behind him, understanding that mental health is just as crucial as physical fitness in the high-pressure world of sports. His legacy as a coach remains intact, and many are hopeful for his return once he has fully addressed these health challenges.
In the meantime, Corinthians will need to explore other coaching options as they navigate this transitional period. The club's management faces the task of finding a suitable replacement who can lead the team effectively while they wait for Tite's potential return to the sidelines.
As the situation develops, fans and supporters will undoubtedly keep a close eye on both Tite's recovery and the direction Corinthians takes in the coming weeks. For now, Tite's health and personal well-being take precedence, a reminder that behind every successful coach is a human being who, at times, must prioritize self-care above all else.
