Pep Guardiola, one of the most successful football managers in recent years, has expressed his long-standing desire to take on the challenge of managing a national team.
Although currently contracted to Manchester City until 2027, the Spaniard has often mentioned his interest in managing a team at international tournaments like the World Cup or European Championship.
This has sparked renewed speculation following recent reports that Brazil’s head coach, Dorival Junior, might be on the verge of being sacked.
Brazil’s Struggles and Dorival Junior’s Likely Departure
Brazil’s disappointing 4-1 loss to Argentina in their recent World Cup qualifier has left the team struggling, currently sitting fourth in the South American standings, 10 points behind the leaders.
This has put immense pressure on Dorival Junior, who has only secured five wins in 15 games since taking over as Brazil’s head coach in January 2024.
The loss to Argentina, combined with Brazil’s elimination from the Copa America by Uruguay, has led many to believe that Dorival’s time as head coach is coming to an end.
Guardiola Named as a Potential Successor
With Dorival Junior reportedly set to be dismissed, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is looking at potential replacements.
According to reports from Spanish newspaper Marca, Guardiola is one of the frontrunners for the role, along with former Benfica and Sporting Lisbon coach Jorge Jesus, who is currently managing in Saudi Arabia.
The CBF is reportedly keen on appointing a foreign manager to lead Brazil into the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, and Guardiola is said to be a prime candidate.
Guardiola’s Previous Remarks About Managing a National Team
Pep Guardiola has not hidden his desire to manage a national team.
He has previously said that managing a national team at a major tournament like the World Cup or Euro Championship would be an exciting challenge.
Reflecting on his early days in management, Guardiola admitted that he never initially thought about winning league titles or Champions League trophies.
Instead, he focused on the experience of managing at an international level, something he still dreams of achieving.
This has only intensified speculation around the potential for him to take over Brazil.
No Direct Contact Yet Between Guardiola and the CBF
Despite widespread speculation about Guardiola taking over Brazil, the CBF has denied any official contact with the Manchester City manager.
In November, the president of the CBF, Ednaldo Rodrigues, publicly stated that no contact had been made with Guardiola, dismissing rumors that the CBF was actively pursuing him.
However, with Dorival Junior now expected to leave, it seems likely that the CBF will renew their efforts to recruit Guardiola for the high-profile job.
Guardiola’s Focus on Manchester City Despite Speculation
Although the Brazil job is undeniably attractive, especially with the nation’s footballing pedigree, it appears unlikely that Guardiola will leave his post at Manchester City anytime soon.
After signing a new contract with City in November 2024, Guardiola is committed to shaping the team for the future, including what promises to be a transformative summer transfer window.
Despite his struggles this season, Guardiola remains focused on his long-term project at the Etihad Stadium, where he is still building his next great team.
The Future of Brazil’s National Team
With the CBF seemingly moving on from Dorival Junior, the hunt for a new head coach is intensifying.
While Guardiola remains a strong contender, his current commitment to Manchester City and his desire to build a dynasty in England may hold him back from making the move to Brazil just yet.
Nevertheless, as the 2026 World Cup approaches, the role of Brazil’s national team manager remains one of the most coveted in international football.
Whether Guardiola eventually makes the leap to manage Brazil, only time will tell.