Report: Dorival's future as Brazil coach under review after Argentina loss

Dorival Junior's time on Brazil's bench could be coming to an end.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) will have in-person meetings with Dorival and his staff Friday to discuss his future as coach of the Selecao, sources told ESPN Brasil.

The sit-down comes in the aftermath of Tuesday's humbling 4-1 loss to archrival Argentina in World Cup qualifying. While it's standard CBF practice for these types of reviews to take place following international windows, the lopsided loss in Buenos Aires prompted CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues to fast-track the meetings, according to ESPN.

"There's always a lot of pressure, but I never run away from my responsibilities," Dorival told reporters after the setback in Argentina, calling this the "most delicate moment" in his coaching career. "I'm aware of what this loss means and everything that's been going on."

He added: "I really believe in my work, in the development of this process. It's a complicated and difficult process, but I have no doubt that we'll find a way out."

Dorival has not been informed about a potential dismissal, but several possible replacements are being discussed internally by the CBF, sources told ESPN. Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has been a longtime target, while Flamengo's Filipe Luis and Al-Hilal boss Jorge Jesus are also candidates.

Dorival, 62, took over the storied national team in 2024, leaving Brazilian club Sao Paulo to replace Fernando Diniz in the role. He's been unable to return the five-time World Cup winner to previous glories, though.

Brazil was ousted from last summer's Copa America in the quarterfinals and has been inconsistent in World Cup qualifying, sitting fourth in the CONMEBOL standings.

Only the top six finishers will qualify automatically for next year's tournament that's being staged in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.