Pep Guardiola on three-man shortlist for Brazil job after Dorival Junior exit

Pep Guardiola is reportedly on a three-man shortlist to become Brazil’s next head coach following the sacking of Dorival Junior.

The Selecao parted ways with Junior after a humbling 4-1 loss to Argentina during the recent international break.

The defeat to their biggest rivals in World Cup qualifying saw Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Giuliano Simeone all get on the scoresheet for Argentina, while Brazil’s Matheus Cunha’s goal did little to ease the pain.

The loss left Brazil, the five-time world champions, in fourth place in the qualification standings – 10 points behind the current holders, Argentina.

With a top-six finish required for automatic qualification, the defeat further highlighted the challenges facing Brazil. Five losses in 14 matches led to Junior’s dismissal, just over a year after his appointment.

Manchester City boss Guardiola is now reportedly among the candidates to take over, with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CFA) focusing on hiring a foreign manager ahead of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Carlo Ancelotti And Jorge Jesus Also Linked With Brazil Job

Guardiola is up against Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti and former Benfica and Sporting CP coach Jorge Jesus.

The Brazilian FA approached Ancelotti in both 2022 and 2023, and it is claimed that re-elected CFA president Ednaldo Rodrigues is prepared to make another move for the Italian.

Ancelotti, however, has previously stated his intention to honor his contract with Real Madrid, which runs until 2026.

Meanwhile, Jesus, who is currently managing Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, had a strained relationship with Brazilian star Neymar in the past, although he has recently softened his stance.

Pep Guardiola, who extended his contract with Manchester City earlier this season, has admitted to having an interest in international management, with the Brazil job being one he is said to be eyeing.

Despite enduring his toughest season at Man City, where the club currently sits in fifth place and is fighting for Champions League qualification, Guardiola’s team still has opportunities for success, including in the FA Cup and Club World Cup.