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31 Mar 2025, Mon

After 4-1 loss to Argentina, Dorival Júnior departs as Jorge Jesus emerges as favorite

Jorge Jesus


The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced on Friday, March 28, the dismissal of Dorival Júnior as head coach of the Brazilian men’s national team, ending a 16-game tenure that began in January 2024. The decision, made by CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues during a meeting at the organization’s headquarters in Rio de Janeiro, followed a string of lackluster results, culminating in a 4-1 thrashing by Argentina in Buenos Aires on Tuesday in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Alongside Dorival, assistants Lucas Silvestre and Pedro Sotero, as well as fitness coach Celso Resende, were also relieved of their duties. The CBF stated that the search for a replacement has begun immediately, with Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus, former Flamengo boss, emerging as the frontrunner to take over, while Carlo Ancelotti, another contender, remains tied to Real Madrid until mid-2026. The announcement came via an official statement on the CBF website, paired with a brief press address by Ednaldo, who thanked Dorival for his efforts without taking questions from reporters.

Dorival Júnior departs with a 58.3% win rate, having secured seven victories, seven draws, and two losses in 16 matches, with 25 goals scored and 17 conceded. His exit marks the fourth coaching change in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup cycle, following Tite, Ramon Menezes, and Fernando Diniz, highlighting ongoing instability in the team’s leadership. Pressure had been mounting since Brazil’s quarterfinal exit against Uruguay in the 2024 Copa América, but the heavy defeat to archrival Argentina exposed tactical shortcomings and sealed his fate. Jorge Jesus, who led Flamengo to the Copa Libertadores and Brazilian Championship in 2019, now stands out as a strong candidate, bringing a proven track record and an attacking philosophy that could resonate with fans.

With Brazil’s next matches scheduled for June against Ecuador and Paraguay in the qualifiers, the CBF has a window to appoint a new coach. The organization retained director of national teams Rodrigo Caetano, technical coordinator Juan, and team manager Cícero Souza, who will assist in selecting Dorival’s successor. The 4-1 loss to Argentina, where Brazil managed just one shot on goal despite fielding stars like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Raphinha, underscored the need for change, and Jorge Jesus’s name is already sparking excitement among supporters eager for a turnaround.

Argentina
Argentina – Foto: Instagram

Immediate fallout from the dismissal

Dorival Júnior’s departure caught some off guard, though the writing was on the wall for those tracking Brazil’s recent performances. After the Argentina defeat, the coach took accountability in a press conference, acknowledging the gravity of the result but expressing confidence in the team’s potential to rebound. However, the meeting with Ednaldo Rodrigues at CBF headquarters finalized his exit, closing a chapter that lasted just over a year.

Fans, frustrated by the team’s struggles, have mixed feelings about the change. Jorge Jesus, with his stellar record in Brazilian football, is viewed as a stabilizing force who could deliver quick results. Currently at Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, where his contract runs until mid-year, Jesus’s availability before the Club World Cup in June and July gives him an edge in the CBF’s considerations.

Dorival’s record in numbers

  • Seven wins: Highlights include friendlies against England (1-0) and Mexico (3-2), plus qualifier victories.
  • Seven draws: Notable ties include a 3-3 thriller with Spain and a 0-0 against Uruguay in Copa América.
  • Two losses: Defeats to Paraguay (1-0) and Argentina (4-1) in the qualifiers.

Mounting pressure and the Argentina debacle

Dorival Júnior’s stint with Brazil was a rollercoaster from the start. Hired in January 2024 to replace interim coach Fernando Diniz, who managed six games, Dorival took over a squad reeling from a 2022 World Cup quarterfinal exit to Croatia on penalties. His tenure showed promise early on, with a win over England at Wembley and a spirited draw against Spain, but the qualifiers and Copa América exposed deeper issues.

Critics pointed to his inability to unlock the potential of a star-studded roster featuring Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Raphinha, and Matheus Cunha. In the Copa América, held in July 2024 in the United States, Brazil won just one group-stage match and fell to Uruguay in the quarterfinals on penalties after a goalless draw, despite the opponent playing with 10 men for nearly 20 minutes. That elimination fueled scrutiny, but Dorival held on with pledges of improvement.

Building a cohesive unit grew tougher without Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, sidelined by a severe knee injury since October 2023 and still recovering. Lacking his flair, the team struggled for decisiveness, and the Argentina rout laid bare these flaws. With only one shot on goal in 90 minutes, Brazil was outclassed by a rival that exploited defensive lapses and a lack of attacking spark, prompting the CBF to act swiftly.

Jorge Jesus in the spotlight

Following Dorival’s exit, the CBF turned its focus to Jorge Jesus, a Portuguese manager who left an indelible mark on Brazilian football with Flamengo in 2019. That year, he guided the Rio club to the Copa Libertadores and Brazilian Championship with a dynamic, high-pressing style that won over fans and reshaped expectations. Now at Al Hilal, where he’s claimed the Saudi League and Supercopa titles, Jesus is seen as a coach who could bring structure and confidence to Brazil.

Jorge Jesus rose to prominence after the CBF shelved plans to pursue Carlo Ancelotti further. The Italian, Ednaldo Rodrigues’s top pick since 2023, extended his Real Madrid contract until June 2026 and recently reaffirmed his commitment, dimming hopes of a move to Brazil. The looming Club World Cup, set for June and July, also complicates Ancelotti’s availability, pushing the CBF toward Jesus, who could step in sooner and prepare the team for June qualifiers.

Other names like Palmeiras’s Abel Ferreira and former player Filipe Luís, now a budding coach, have surfaced, but Jesus leads the pack due to his experience and proven success. The CBF aims to kick off talks in the coming days, leveraging the gap until June to lock in a new coach and refine its strategy for the 2026 World Cup.

Dorival’s journey with Brazil

Dorival Júnior took the reins in January 2024 after a triumphant spell at São Paulo, where he won the 2023 Copa do Brasil. Before that, he led Flamengo to the 2022 Copa Libertadores and Copa do Brasil, credentials that earned him the national team job. His coaching career, spanning over two decades since 2002, includes stints at Santos, Atlético Mineiro, Internacional, Vasco da Gama, Fluminense, and Palmeiras, managing over 20 clubs.

Despite his pedigree, Dorival couldn’t replicate club success with Brazil. In 16 games, he notched seven wins, seven draws, and two losses, with a 58.3% points rate, scoring 25 goals and conceding 17. While flashes of brilliance, like the England win, stood out, inconsistent showings—most glaringly against Argentina—marked his tenure. Neymar’s absence and tactical struggles defined his time in charge.

The Copa América exit and shaky qualifier results, especially the recent thrashing, triggered his dismissal. Brazil sits fourth in the South American qualifiers with 17 points after 12 matches, trailing Argentina, Colombia, and Uruguay. Though qualification isn’t at immediate risk, the subpar performance for a five-time world champion demanded action.

Who is Jorge Jesus

Jorge Jesus, 70, is a globally respected coach with over 30 years in the game. Born in Amadora, Portugal, he gained prominence at Benfica, winning three Portuguese titles between 2009 and 2015 and reaching two Europa League finals. His 2019-2020 stint at Flamengo was transformative, securing five trophies in under a year, including the Libertadores and Brasileirão, with a 90% win rate.

At Al Hilal since 2023, he’s added the Saudi League and Supercopa to his resume. His high-pressing, possession-based, fast-attacking style contrasts with Dorival’s more adaptable approach, offering the CBF a chance to rejuvenate Brazil. His international experience and Brazilian success make him a standout candidate.

Challenges awaiting the new coach

Brazil’s next coach must steer the team back into contention for the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With only six qualifier games played in 2025 so far, June brings matches against Ecuador and Paraguay, plus likely friendlies for preparation. Neymar’s expected mid-year return will be pivotal for the new manager’s success.

The revolving door of coaches—four since the 2022 World Cup—underscores the urgency for consistency. Brazil hasn’t won a World Cup since 2002 and has reached the semifinals just once in the last five tournaments, in 2014. Delivering results and reviving Brazil’s flair will be immediate tests, whether for Jorge Jesus or another appointee.

Upcoming schedule

The CBF is racing to name Dorival’s replacement. Brazil’s next fixtures are:

  • June 2025: Brazil vs. Ecuador, World Cup qualifiers.
  • June 2025: Brazil vs. Paraguay, World Cup qualifiers.
  • September 2025: Two more qualifier rounds.
    This timeline gives the CBF about three months to negotiate and unveil a new coach, ensuring a start before official matches.

Fans’ anticipation

Dorival Júnior’s exit sparked varied reactions among fans. Some mourn the loss of an experienced coach and call for patience, while others cheer Jorge Jesus’s potential arrival, seeing his attacking flair as a revival spark. The Argentina rout reignited debates over the squad’s quality, with stars like Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo facing calls for greater impact.

Supporters also eagerly await a coach who can reintegrate Neymar with Brazil’s young attackers. The hope is for a clear plan in the qualifiers and a strong foundation for 2026, restoring the prestige of the five-time world champions.

State of the qualifiers

Brazil ranks fourth in the South American qualifiers with 17 points after 12 rounds, behind Argentina (25 points), Colombia (19 points), and Uruguay (18 points). With six direct spots and one playoff berth, qualification isn’t in jeopardy, but the form raises concerns. The 4-1 loss to Argentina was the fifth defeat in this cycle, alongside setbacks to Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay, and Venezuela, signaling a need for urgent improvement.

A coach like Jorge Jesus could harness the squad’s talent to climb the standings. With six rounds left after June, the new manager has room to instill a philosophy and push for a stronger campaign toward the World Cup.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced on Friday, March 28, the dismissal of Dorival Júnior as head coach of the Brazilian men’s national team, ending a 16-game tenure that began in January 2024. The decision, made by CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues during a meeting at the organization’s headquarters in Rio de Janeiro, followed a string of lackluster results, culminating in a 4-1 thrashing by Argentina in Buenos Aires on Tuesday in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Alongside Dorival, assistants Lucas Silvestre and Pedro Sotero, as well as fitness coach Celso Resende, were also relieved of their duties. The CBF stated that the search for a replacement has begun immediately, with Portuguese manager Jorge Jesus, former Flamengo boss, emerging as the frontrunner to take over, while Carlo Ancelotti, another contender, remains tied to Real Madrid until mid-2026. The announcement came via an official statement on the CBF website, paired with a brief press address by Ednaldo, who thanked Dorival for his efforts without taking questions from reporters.

Dorival Júnior departs with a 58.3% win rate, having secured seven victories, seven draws, and two losses in 16 matches, with 25 goals scored and 17 conceded. His exit marks the fourth coaching change in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup cycle, following Tite, Ramon Menezes, and Fernando Diniz, highlighting ongoing instability in the team’s leadership. Pressure had been mounting since Brazil’s quarterfinal exit against Uruguay in the 2024 Copa América, but the heavy defeat to archrival Argentina exposed tactical shortcomings and sealed his fate. Jorge Jesus, who led Flamengo to the Copa Libertadores and Brazilian Championship in 2019, now stands out as a strong candidate, bringing a proven track record and an attacking philosophy that could resonate with fans.

With Brazil’s next matches scheduled for June against Ecuador and Paraguay in the qualifiers, the CBF has a window to appoint a new coach. The organization retained director of national teams Rodrigo Caetano, technical coordinator Juan, and team manager Cícero Souza, who will assist in selecting Dorival’s successor. The 4-1 loss to Argentina, where Brazil managed just one shot on goal despite fielding stars like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Raphinha, underscored the need for change, and Jorge Jesus’s name is already sparking excitement among supporters eager for a turnaround.

Argentina
Argentina – Foto: Instagram

Immediate fallout from the dismissal

Dorival Júnior’s departure caught some off guard, though the writing was on the wall for those tracking Brazil’s recent performances. After the Argentina defeat, the coach took accountability in a press conference, acknowledging the gravity of the result but expressing confidence in the team’s potential to rebound. However, the meeting with Ednaldo Rodrigues at CBF headquarters finalized his exit, closing a chapter that lasted just over a year.

Fans, frustrated by the team’s struggles, have mixed feelings about the change. Jorge Jesus, with his stellar record in Brazilian football, is viewed as a stabilizing force who could deliver quick results. Currently at Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, where his contract runs until mid-year, Jesus’s availability before the Club World Cup in June and July gives him an edge in the CBF’s considerations.

Dorival’s record in numbers

  • Seven wins: Highlights include friendlies against England (1-0) and Mexico (3-2), plus qualifier victories.
  • Seven draws: Notable ties include a 3-3 thriller with Spain and a 0-0 against Uruguay in Copa América.
  • Two losses: Defeats to Paraguay (1-0) and Argentina (4-1) in the qualifiers.

Mounting pressure and the Argentina debacle

Dorival Júnior’s stint with Brazil was a rollercoaster from the start. Hired in January 2024 to replace interim coach Fernando Diniz, who managed six games, Dorival took over a squad reeling from a 2022 World Cup quarterfinal exit to Croatia on penalties. His tenure showed promise early on, with a win over England at Wembley and a spirited draw against Spain, but the qualifiers and Copa América exposed deeper issues.

Critics pointed to his inability to unlock the potential of a star-studded roster featuring Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Raphinha, and Matheus Cunha. In the Copa América, held in July 2024 in the United States, Brazil won just one group-stage match and fell to Uruguay in the quarterfinals on penalties after a goalless draw, despite the opponent playing with 10 men for nearly 20 minutes. That elimination fueled scrutiny, but Dorival held on with pledges of improvement.

Building a cohesive unit grew tougher without Neymar, Brazil’s all-time leading scorer, sidelined by a severe knee injury since October 2023 and still recovering. Lacking his flair, the team struggled for decisiveness, and the Argentina rout laid bare these flaws. With only one shot on goal in 90 minutes, Brazil was outclassed by a rival that exploited defensive lapses and a lack of attacking spark, prompting the CBF to act swiftly.

Jorge Jesus in the spotlight

Following Dorival’s exit, the CBF turned its focus to Jorge Jesus, a Portuguese manager who left an indelible mark on Brazilian football with Flamengo in 2019. That year, he guided the Rio club to the Copa Libertadores and Brazilian Championship with a dynamic, high-pressing style that won over fans and reshaped expectations. Now at Al Hilal, where he’s claimed the Saudi League and Supercopa titles, Jesus is seen as a coach who could bring structure and confidence to Brazil.

Jorge Jesus rose to prominence after the CBF shelved plans to pursue Carlo Ancelotti further. The Italian, Ednaldo Rodrigues’s top pick since 2023, extended his Real Madrid contract until June 2026 and recently reaffirmed his commitment, dimming hopes of a move to Brazil. The looming Club World Cup, set for June and July, also complicates Ancelotti’s availability, pushing the CBF toward Jesus, who could step in sooner and prepare the team for June qualifiers.

Other names like Palmeiras’s Abel Ferreira and former player Filipe Luís, now a budding coach, have surfaced, but Jesus leads the pack due to his experience and proven success. The CBF aims to kick off talks in the coming days, leveraging the gap until June to lock in a new coach and refine its strategy for the 2026 World Cup.

Dorival’s journey with Brazil

Dorival Júnior took the reins in January 2024 after a triumphant spell at São Paulo, where he won the 2023 Copa do Brasil. Before that, he led Flamengo to the 2022 Copa Libertadores and Copa do Brasil, credentials that earned him the national team job. His coaching career, spanning over two decades since 2002, includes stints at Santos, Atlético Mineiro, Internacional, Vasco da Gama, Fluminense, and Palmeiras, managing over 20 clubs.

Despite his pedigree, Dorival couldn’t replicate club success with Brazil. In 16 games, he notched seven wins, seven draws, and two losses, with a 58.3% points rate, scoring 25 goals and conceding 17. While flashes of brilliance, like the England win, stood out, inconsistent showings—most glaringly against Argentina—marked his tenure. Neymar’s absence and tactical struggles defined his time in charge.

The Copa América exit and shaky qualifier results, especially the recent thrashing, triggered his dismissal. Brazil sits fourth in the South American qualifiers with 17 points after 12 matches, trailing Argentina, Colombia, and Uruguay. Though qualification isn’t at immediate risk, the subpar performance for a five-time world champion demanded action.

Who is Jorge Jesus

Jorge Jesus, 70, is a globally respected coach with over 30 years in the game. Born in Amadora, Portugal, he gained prominence at Benfica, winning three Portuguese titles between 2009 and 2015 and reaching two Europa League finals. His 2019-2020 stint at Flamengo was transformative, securing five trophies in under a year, including the Libertadores and Brasileirão, with a 90% win rate.

At Al Hilal since 2023, he’s added the Saudi League and Supercopa to his resume. His high-pressing, possession-based, fast-attacking style contrasts with Dorival’s more adaptable approach, offering the CBF a chance to rejuvenate Brazil. His international experience and Brazilian success make him a standout candidate.

Challenges awaiting the new coach

Brazil’s next coach must steer the team back into contention for the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With only six qualifier games played in 2025 so far, June brings matches against Ecuador and Paraguay, plus likely friendlies for preparation. Neymar’s expected mid-year return will be pivotal for the new manager’s success.

The revolving door of coaches—four since the 2022 World Cup—underscores the urgency for consistency. Brazil hasn’t won a World Cup since 2002 and has reached the semifinals just once in the last five tournaments, in 2014. Delivering results and reviving Brazil’s flair will be immediate tests, whether for Jorge Jesus or another appointee.

Upcoming schedule

The CBF is racing to name Dorival’s replacement. Brazil’s next fixtures are:

  • June 2025: Brazil vs. Ecuador, World Cup qualifiers.
  • June 2025: Brazil vs. Paraguay, World Cup qualifiers.
  • September 2025: Two more qualifier rounds.
    This timeline gives the CBF about three months to negotiate and unveil a new coach, ensuring a start before official matches.

Fans’ anticipation

Dorival Júnior’s exit sparked varied reactions among fans. Some mourn the loss of an experienced coach and call for patience, while others cheer Jorge Jesus’s potential arrival, seeing his attacking flair as a revival spark. The Argentina rout reignited debates over the squad’s quality, with stars like Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo facing calls for greater impact.

Supporters also eagerly await a coach who can reintegrate Neymar with Brazil’s young attackers. The hope is for a clear plan in the qualifiers and a strong foundation for 2026, restoring the prestige of the five-time world champions.

State of the qualifiers

Brazil ranks fourth in the South American qualifiers with 17 points after 12 rounds, behind Argentina (25 points), Colombia (19 points), and Uruguay (18 points). With six direct spots and one playoff berth, qualification isn’t in jeopardy, but the form raises concerns. The 4-1 loss to Argentina was the fifth defeat in this cycle, alongside setbacks to Uruguay, Colombia, Paraguay, and Venezuela, signaling a need for urgent improvement.

A coach like Jorge Jesus could harness the squad’s talent to climb the standings. With six rounds left after June, the new manager has room to instill a philosophy and push for a stronger campaign toward the World Cup.

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