Brazil enters the 2024 Copa América amidst a period of uncertainty and transition. Historically dominant in world football, the Seleção now find themselves trailing their European counterparts in both quality and consistency. Even within South America, where they once reigned supreme, Brazil has faltered, struggling to find stability since the departure of former head coach Tite.
Tite’s tenure ended abruptly after consecutive World Cup quarter-final exits in Russia and Qatar, prompting the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) to seek a new direction. Initially, CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues had promised Carlo Ancelotti as Tite’s successor, yet Ancelotti’s renewal with Real Madrid led to interim appointments and delays. Fernando Diniz, known for his innovative coaching approach at Fluminense, was thrust into the role, but his tenure was short-lived and marked by mixed results.
Under Diniz’s brief stewardship, Brazil endured a tumultuous phase, including significant defeats to regional rivals like Uruguay and Colombia. Off-field controversies, such as threats of World Cup expulsion and fan unrest, further underscored the team’s instability. Rodrigues, reinstated as CBF president, swiftly replaced Diniz with Dorival Júnior, aiming to stabilize the team ahead of crucial friendlies against European powerhouses England and Spain.
The friendlies proved promising, with Brazil securing a win at Wembley and a dramatic draw in Spain, buoying team morale. Central to these successes was the emergence of 17-year-old Endrick, whose impact on the pitch has been lauded despite his youth. Endrick’s rise symbolizes a new era for Brazil, with Dorival Júnior restructuring the squad around promising young talents while sidelining established stars like Casemiro and Gabriel Jesus.
Amidst these changes, the team faces scrutiny and pressure, particularly from Brazilian football icons like Ronaldinho, who have publicly criticized the squad’s recent performances. The upcoming Copa América thus serves as a critical test for Dorival and his rejuvenated Seleção. While expectations are tempered compared to past tournaments, reclaiming the Copa América title lost to Argentina in 2021 could restore faith and provide momentum towards the 2026 World Cup.
In essence, Brazil’s journey through the 2024 Copa América is not just about winning silverware but also about revitalizing a national football identity rooted in flair and success. Dorival’s task extends beyond tactical adjustments; it entails restoring pride and proving that Brazil can once again dominate on the international stage. The tournament will serve as a litmus test for a new generation of stars tasked with dragging Brazil out of its current footballing turmoil.
