Soccer

Filipe Luis is in the sights of the CBF after the Brazilian National Team's embarrassment, Flamengo observes

Defeat to Argentina reignites debate over Brazilian national team leadership, with names such as Carlo Ancelotti and Filipe Luís on the agenda in 2025

Dorival Júnior under pressure in the Brazilian National Team after defeat to Argentina, with Ancelotti and Filipe Luís considered. (Photo/CBF)

26 Mar 2025 | 06:10 |

The Brazilian national team's 4-1 defeat to Argentina at the Monumental de Núñez in Buenos Aires has deepened the crisis surrounding Dorival Júnior's performance. The team's performance left CBF directors dissatisfied, reigniting the debate over whether the coach should continue to lead the national team. Since the draws against Venezuela and Uruguay in November, the March FIFA deadline was seen as a determining factor in the coach's evaluation. However, while criticism grew, CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues prioritized his re-election, which took place on the eve of the match against Argentina.

ANCELOTTI IS AN OPTION AGAIN

With Dorival Júnior's continuity under question, the name of Carlo Ancelotti, current Real Madrid coach, is once again gaining traction behind the scenes at the CBF. The Italian coach has always been Ednaldo's favorite to take over the national team, and his possible departure from the Spanish club after the Club World Cup could pave the way for negotiations. The dilemma, however, lies in the ideal time to make a decision. Ancelotti has a contract until 2026, but his permanence in Spain is uncertain. The intercontinental club tournament, scheduled for June and July in the United States, is seen as a key factor in defining the future of the Brazilian national team.

The relationship between Dorival Júnior and Ednaldo Rodrigues has never been close, but the distance has become more pronounced in recent weeks. The president of the CBF avoided making any strong statements about the coach, limiting himself to saying that the organization offered all the necessary conditions for the coaching staff. Within the CBF, pressure for change has intensified, with discussions not only about changing the coach, but also about overhauling the football department . The board believes that the poor results are accompanied by below-par performance on the field.

FILIPE LUÍS EMERGES AS AN ALTERNATIVE

In addition to Ancelotti, another name that has emerged as a possibility is Filipe Luís, a former full-back and currently part of Flamengo's coaching staff. With experience in European football and a good relationship with the new generation of players, he is seen as a viable option for the future of the national team. Other coaches are also being considered, but with less acceptance within the CBF. Jorge Jesus , from Al-Hilal, and Abel Ferreira, from Palmeiras, appear as alternatives, although without much internal approval.

Given the uncertainty, the CBF may decide to postpone any changes until the next FIFA World Cup in June. On that occasion, Brazil will face Ecuador away from home and Paraguay at home. Dorival Júnior is expected to stay until these matches, but under close observation. Even if results improve, the team's performance will continue to be a determining factor for his permanence. The CBF's assessment is not based solely on the scores, but on the quality of the football played by the team.

Last minute

Soccer

Rossi preaches focus on Flamengo despite dreaming of playing for the Argentine national team

The goalkeeper doesn't deny that reaching the current world champion is a goal, but says it's necessary to keep his head in his work at Mengão

Rossi doesn't deny his dream of wearing the Argentine national team shirt, but he urges focus on Flamengo - Photo: Adriano Fontes/Flamengo

16 Set 2025 | 22:00 |

In a press conference at Ninho do Urubu, goalkeeper Agustín Rossi spoke about his desire to be called up to the Argentina national team , the current world champion. Despite his dream, the goalkeeper made it clear that his priority remains Flamengo.

Rossi on his dream of joining the Argentine national team: "My job is for Flamengo"

"Obviously, I've always wanted to be called up. I think Brazilian football is very strong, not only in South America, but worldwide as well. In the last call-up, there were players from here. But I'm not thinking about that right now . I think that if I do my job well, that call-up could come," Rossi stated.

TOTAL FOCUS ON FLAMENGO

The Argentine stressed that he keeps his feet on the ground and that his main goal is to continue showing consistency for the Rubro-Negro , who have the best defense in the Brasileirão, conceding only 10 goals in 22 games. At Maracanã, the Mais Querido conceded only three goals.

"I'm in no rush, because my job is for Flamengo , day to day, game to game. My biggest focus is to maintain this streak so that the call-up can come. Of course I have that desire, but I don't treat it as a requirement . I'm Flamengo's goalkeeper, I'm responsible for Flamengo. If the call-up comes, I'll welcome it," he added.

INCOME AND TITLES WITH THE MANTLE

Since joining Flamengo in 2023, Rossi has already won four titles. Last season, he was a key player in the undefeated Carioca Championship and also played in the Copa do Brasil victory. In 2025, he maintained his starting spot in the Supercopa do Brasil and the Campeonato Estadual . In total, he has represented Flamengo in 125 official matches, establishing himself as a pillar of the team.

Filipe Luis is in the sights of the CBF after the Brazilian National Team's embarrassment, Flamengo observes