Brazil’s shock World Cup exit at the hands of Croatia spelt the end of Tite - and attentions are now turning to finding his replacement.
The Selecao were beaten on penalties in their World Cup quarter-final in Qatar leading to their manager confirming he would step down from his role as planned in the aftermath of the game.
"The cycle has ended, and I keep to my word," he said after the match. "There are other great professionals that can replace me."
Whilst Tite announced his intentions to leave back in February, the CBF agreed not to begin searching for his replacement until the tournament was over. They now face a search for his successor - with an early favourite emerging.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Who should be the next Brazil manager? Join the discussion in the comments section.
Portuguese boss Abel Ferreira has been tipped to take the vacancy, with a poll from one of Brazil’s biggest media outlets, UOL Esporte, in the aftermath of the Croatia defeat seeing him voted as the fans’ favourite to take the job. He has also been heavily linked by the Brazilian press with the role.
However, Mirror Football understands that, at this moment in time, Ferreira remains happy at Palmeiras and focused on the task at hand at the Brazilian club. He has enjoyed a fine record at Allianz Parque, twice winning the Copa Libertadores and winning the Brazilian top flight amongst other honours.
The 43-year-old previously had stints as Braga and Panathanaikos manager before heading to South America in 2020 where he has enjoyed huge success leading to links with the Brazil job.
Ferreira fits the bill with the CBF refusing to rule out an unprecedented decision not to appoint a Brazilian coach as they now turn attentions to the 2026 World Cup. Pep Guardiola was sounded out for the role at one stage previously but has just signed a new deal with Manchester City, whilst other names linked included Jorge Jesus and Jorge Sampaolil.
Former Flamengo manager Dorival Júnior and Fernando Diniz of Fluminense were reported to be of interested by Goal Brasil in September if they opt to appoint a homegrown coach. Asked about the prospect of his successor being someone from outside Brazil, Tite said in January: “The market for coaches is about quality, knowledge and achievement, not nationality.”
As a result of his success with Palmeiras, Ferreira has been linked with jobs elsewhere but has regularly pointed to his gratitude to the club for handing him his big chance. He was considered by Brighton to replace Graham Potter and, responding to links with Benfica and Granada in March, Ferreira said: “You already know me, it is to the fans that I speak directly. I was already very clear. I have a contract.
“In football, anything is possible, but I’m here to hear what the club has to say. You know the connection I have with these players is very strong. We are a working family, we win and lose together. We cry with joy and sadness together. I will listen to what the club has to say, and then everything in God’s time. I remember that I have a contract.”
