Brazil’s Copa America-winning coach, Tite, has decided to take a break from football to focus on his well-being.
Tite has been dealing with several health issues, including fatigue, exhaustion, and mental burnout. After considering everything, the former Brazil coach has opted to step away from football for an indefinite period to take care of himself.
In August, Tite was hospitalized after suffering a heart attack, just months after leading Brazil to the 2019 Copa America title. The following month, he was dismissed by Brazilian club Flamengo.
Tite was in discussions with his home club, Corinthians, but at 63 years old, he announced his decision to take a break from football.
In a statement posted by his son, Matheus, on Instagram, Tite explained the reasons behind his decision:
“I’ve come to realize that there are times when you must understand that, as a person, I can be weak and acknowledge that this will ultimately make me stronger.”
“I am passionate about what I do and I will continue to pursue it. However, after talking with my family and observing the signals my body has been sending me, I have decided that the best course of action now is to take a break from my career and focus on my well-being for as long as necessary.”
Tite began his coaching career with Corinthians, where he had two successful stints, before taking over the Brazil national team in 2016. During his six years as coach of Brazil, he led them to a Copa America victory, but failed to achieve the desired results in the World Cup.
After Brazil’s exit from the 2018 World Cup in the quarter-finals, Tite’s team was also knocked out at the same stage in the 2022 Qatar World Cup. He stepped down from his role shortly after that.
Tite had a highly successful career in Brazilian club football with Corinthians, winning the Copa Libertadores and the FIFA Club World Cup in 2012. He also managed other top Brazilian clubs, including Grêmio, Atlético Mineiro, and Palmeiras.
