Once the undisputed kings of world football, Brazil's national team is now enduring one of its most turbulent periods in recent memory. In just three years, the Seleção has cycled through three managers, suffered a string of historic defeats, and lost its identity on the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The latest blow came with the dismissal of Dorival Júnior, announced on Friday following a crushing 4-1 loss to Argentina in Buenos Aires. In just 16 matches at the helm, Dorival managed 7 wins, 7 draws, and 2 defeats—failing to establish a cohesive style or competitive squad.

A Frustrating Post-Tite Era

After Tite's departure post-Qatar 2022, Brazil entered a chaotic transitional phase. Interim managers Ramon Menezes and Fernando Diniz took over while the CBF waited in vain for Carlo Ancelotti, who eventually extended his contract with Real Madrid.

The results? Historically poor performances:

• First-ever home loss to Argentina in World Cup qualifying
• First defeat to Colombia in qualifiers
• Quarterfinal exit in Copa América 2024 with a lackluster display

No Neymar, No Direction

Since October 2023, Brazil has been without Neymar, sidelined with a serious knee injury. Without its talisman, the team has struggled for leadership and creativity—losing nearly half of its matches in his absence.

World-Class Talent, But No Identity

Despite boasting stars like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Raphinha, and Alisson, none have stepped up as true leaders:

• Vinícius has just 6 goals in 39 caps
• Rodrygo has scored 7 in 33 appearances
• No clear successor to Casemiro in midfield
• Defensive errors and lack of a world-class striker further highlight the decline

Brazil currently sits fourth in the CONMEBOL standings with 21 points, still in position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. But fans and analysts alike agree: a major reset is urgently needed.