Brazil’s soccer federation (CBF) removed Fernando Diniz from his position as interim head coach of the national team. Diniz finishes his stint after just six games.
The decision to fire Diniz was likely prompted by the fact that Carlo Ancelotti, CBF’s first choice for permanent head coach, is no longer available. CBF planned to hire Ancelotti in the summer, but the Italian decided to remain with the La Liga giants Real Madrid, signing a new contract back in December.
With Ancelotti no longer being an option, CBF decided to start the search for a new head coach immediately. Several candidates are being considered, but according to reports from Brazil media outlets, Sao Paulo’s head coach, Dorival Junior, is the favorite for the job.
Brazil parted ways with long-time head coach Tite after a disappointing run at the 2022 World Cup. He was replaced by Diniz, who signed a one-year deal while retaining his managerial duties at Fluminense.
However, Diniz didn’t make it through his contract, partially due to a poor run in his time in charge. In six games of South America’s qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, Brazil suffered three losses and is currently sitting at No. 6 in Group A with just seven points.
