After the sacking of Dorival Junior, Brazil’s eye has turned to the Premier League for his possible successor
Brazil are on the hunt for a new head coach after parting ways with Dorival Junior, and they have set their sights on one of the biggest names in world football.
Reports suggest that Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is among the top contenders to take charge of the five-time world champions as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Guardiola on Brazil’s three-man shortlist
Dorival Junior’s tenure as Brazil’s head coach came to an abrupt end following a humiliating 4-1 defeat against Argentina, a loss that ultimately sealed his fate.
His position had already been under scrutiny after Brazil’s quarter-final exit to Uruguay at the 2024 Copa America, and Friday’s announcement by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed his departure.
With the Selecao now without a manager, speculation has been running wild over who will take the hot seat next. According to Marca, Brazil have drawn up a three-man shortlist, with Pep Guardiola, Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti, and Al-Hilal’s Jorge Jesus all in contention.
This is not the first time Brazil have attempted to lure a foreign coach. Ancelotti was previously approached before CBF settled on Dorival, and now that Ednaldo Rodrigues has been re-elected as president, he is reportedly considering another move for the Italian tactician.
However, Guardiola has now emerged as the priority, with Brazil keen on convincing him to take charge of the national team.
How likely Is Guardiola to leave Man City?
Guardiola has previously expressed an interest in coaching a national team, stating that he would like to experience the thrill of an international tournament.
However, his commitment to Manchester City remains a significant hurdle. The Spaniard signed a two-year contract extension at the Etihad, meaning Brazil would need a miracle to pull him away from his long-term project in England.
Despite dominating English football, City are facing an uncertain period, with a potential squad rebuild looming in the summer.
There is even the possibility of missing out on Champions League football, which could affect Guardiola’s long-term plans.
Even with Brazil’s rich football history and immense talent pool, prying Guardiola away from one of Europe’s biggest clubs will be an uphill battle.
