Brazil’s national football team has announced the departure of manager Dorival Junior, just two days after a devastating 4-1 loss to arch-rivals Argentina in World Cup qualifying.

The five-time world champions are currently sitting in fourth place in the South American qualifying group, with five losses from 14 matches. While they remain in a good position to secure a spot in the upcoming World Cup, the humiliating defeat to Argentina, who were without Lionel Messi, combined with ongoing inconsistencies, ultimately led to the end of Dorival’s tenure.

The 62-year-old took over the Brazilian national team in January 2024, succeeding interim coach Fernando Diniz, but has overseen a lacklustre qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup finals in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Under his leadership, the team had a mixed record, with seven wins, six draws, and three losses from his 16 matches in charge.

With the search for a new manager now underway, Brazilian media reports suggest that Jorge Jesus, currently the head coach of Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, is the favorite to take over.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) had previously attempted to hire Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti before turning to Dorival, and there are rumors that they may revisit talks with the Italian coach for the 2026 World Cup cycle.

Brazil will visit Ecuador and host Paraguay on June 4 and 9, respectively, in the next set of qualifiers.