Since the 2022 World Cup, Brazil’s football team has been going through one of the toughest phases in its history. After their quarterfinal exit, coach Tite stepped down, leaving Brazil in a long search for a new coach.
The plan was to have interim coach Fernando Diniz manage the team until Copa América, after which Carlo Ancelotti would take over. It seemed Brazil and Ancelotti had even finalized the agreement. However, due to internal issues within the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), Ancelotti changed his mind and renewed his contract with Real Madrid instead.
Around that time, Derval Junior unexpectedly stepped into the spotlight. Though his start was promising, his team quickly lost consistency, struggling in both Copa América and World Cup qualifiers. At one point, Brazil even dropped to sixth in the standings. In their latest match, Brazil drew 1-1 with Venezuela, raising doubts about the team’s immediate future. Amid all these challenges, new rumors have emerged about a potential shakeup in Brazil’s leadership come 2026—not just in the coaching role but within the CBF itself.
According to reports from Sport, Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazário might be eyeing the CBF presidency himself, with ambitions to bring in none other than Europe’s elite coach Pep Guardiola. Ronaldo recently sold his stake in Brazilian club Cruzeiro, with businessman Pedro Loren purchasing his shares. Now, the man known as ‘The Phenomenon’ is reportedly looking at something even bigger. He plans to run for the CBF presidency in next year’s election.
Although current CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues’ term technically lasts until March 2026, the election will be held next year, and Rodrigues is expected to run again. However, if Ronaldo officially enters the race, it could lead to a tough competition.
Sport also notes that Ronaldo has spent years building a strong network in business, social, and political circles—even the judicial sphere, which could work in his favor if he runs. Additionally, his status as one of the game’s all-time greats gives him a unique appeal.
Back in 2012, Ronaldo had expressed interest in becoming CBF president. Now, if elected, his primary goal would be to bring Pep Guardiola as Brazil’s head coach. Guardiola’s current contract with Manchester City ends this season, and doubts have emerged about a renewal due to City’s inconsistent performances.
Guardiola has expressed interest in managing a national team multiple times, and Ronaldo seems eager to capitalize on this opportunity. His vision is to bring the Spanish legend to Brazil. Now, the question is: will Ronaldo’s dreams become reality?
