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Brazil Eyes Pep Guardiola as Potential National Team Coach Amid Dorival Junior Speculation
Following reports suggesting the potential dismissal of current Brazil head coach Dorival Junior, speculation has emerged linking Pep Guardiola to the coveted national team role. The Brazilian national team, a football powerhouse and five-time World Cup winner, is reportedly considering managerial changes after a recent setback in World Cup qualifying.
Setback Sparks Coaching Change Rumors
The Brazilian squad is reportedly facing repercussions after a humbling 4-1 defeat against arch-rivals Argentina. This defeat has left Brazil in fourth position in the South American World Cup qualifying standings, a significant 10 points behind leaders Argentina. The disappointing result has intensified pressure on the current coach and fueled discussions about potential replacements.
Dorival Junior’s Position Under Scrutiny
According to Brazilian media outlet UOL Esporte, Dorival Junior is likely to bear the brunt of the recent poor performance. Despite taking charge in January 2024, the 62-year-old has managed only five victories in 15 matches. This includes an early exit from last summer’s Copa America at the quarter-final stage against Uruguay, further weakening his position.
Ancelotti and Guardiola on Brazil’s Radar
Previously, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) reportedly approached Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti in both 2022 and 2023. Recent reports indicate that re-elected CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues may renew efforts to secure Ancelotti’s services. However, alongside Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola is reportedly being considered as a prime candidate.
Guardiola Among Top Candidates for Brazil Job
Leading sports publication Marca suggests that Guardiola is on a three-man shortlist. This list also includes Jorge Jesus, former head coach of Benfica and Sporting Lisbon, who currently manages Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia. Hiring a foreign manager to lead the team into the 2026 World Cup, hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is reportedly a key objective for the CBF.
Pep Guardiola is reportedly among potential candidates to replace Dorival Junior as Brazil head coach.
Reports from Brazil indicate Dorival Junior is under pressure after a heavy defeat to Argentina.
Brazil’s 4-1 loss to Argentina places them fourth in World Cup qualifying.
Guardiola’s Openness to National Team Management
Guardiola has previously expressed interest in managing a national team. He has been linked with the Brazil job in the past, and was also mentioned as a potential England manager before Thomas Tuchel’s appointment. Despite these links, Guardiola recently extended his contract with Manchester City, committing his future to the club until 2027.
‘Managing a national team for a World Cup or a European Championship is something I would like to experience,’ Guardiola stated last year. ‘When I began my career, I didn’t focus on league titles or Champions League victories. My thought was simply, do I have a job? I want to experience a World Cup, a Euro, a Copa America – to live through that.’
CBF Previously Denied Guardiola Contact
In November, CBF president Rodrigues refuted claims of contacting Guardiola, even acknowledging his popularity amongst Brazilian fans. ‘Despite being one of the best coaches globally, there has been no contact from the CBF,’ he told ESPN Brasil. ‘We are working with Dorival Júnior’s coaching staff and are content. He has a contract with CBF until 2026, extending to the World Cup. His position is secure.’
Brazil May Tempt Guardiola Despite Manchester City Commitment
However, with Dorival Júnior’s anticipated departure, reports suggest Rodrigues may attempt to persuade the Spanish coach to take on the prestigious Brazil job. Despite what is considered a less successful season by Manchester City’s high standards, Guardiola is expected to remain at the Etihad Stadium. He is reportedly focused on rebuilding and leading the team through a period of change, reinforced by his recent contract extension. His future, for now, appears firmly rooted at Manchester City.