Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has reportedly been added to Brazil‘s three-man managerial shortlist of potential replacements for Dorival Junior.
The Brazilian football confederation (CBF) confirmed on Friday that they have decided to relieve Dorival Junior of his duties as Brazil manager.
The CBF made the decision following Brazil’s heavy 4-1 defeat against arch-rivals Argentina in Tuesday’s World Cup qualifying clash in Buenos Aires.
Dorival Junior, who was appointed in January 2024, experienced an underwhelming record during his time in charge, winning seven, drawing six and losing three of his 16 matches.
Brazil will hope a new manager can oversee an upturn in fortunes and help them achieve their dream of winning a sixth World Cup in 2026.
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Guardiola on Brazil manager shortlist
It has already been reported that Brazil remain interested in Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti and have held talks with Al-Hilal boss Jorge Jesus.
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Guardiola is the third individual on Brazil’s three-man shortlist of potential managerial candidates.
The report claims that Guardiola has previously expressed a fondness for Brazil, although it may be difficult to prise him away from the Etihad Stadium.
The 54-year-old is under contract until the summer of 2027 after putting pen to paper on a new Man City deal in November.
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What are Guardiola’s thoughts on international management?
Guardiola has never managed an international team, having spent his coaching career with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Man City.
The former Barcelona boss was linked with the England job before the Football Association announced Thomas Tuchel as Gareth Southgate‘s replacement.
While he is currently focused on his work with Man City, Guardiola admitted last year that he would be interested in managing a national side at some point in the future.
Guardiola told ESPN Brasil in 2024: “A national team. I would like to train a national team for a World Cup or a European Championship. I would like that.”
Man City return to action for Sunday’s FA Cup clash against Bournemouth, with Guardiola looking to steer his team to the semi-finals.
