Ronaldo Encourages Brazil to Pursue Guardiola

Rio de Janeiro, Apr 2 ,2025 – Former Brazil striker Ronaldo has urged the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) to make a serious effort to recruit Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola for the national team’s vacant coaching position.

Despite Guardiola’s repeated dismissals of speculation linking him to Brazil, and his contract extension with Manchester City until 2027, Ronaldo believes the CBF should not give up on the 54-year-old Spanish tactician, widely considered one of the best managers in football history.

“I would certainly try, but the CBF must act much quicker than they currently are,” Ronaldo said in an interview with Band TV.

He further suggested a backup plan, listing Jorge Jesus and Abel Ferreira as potential alternatives, while also mentioning ex-Gremio coach Renato Gaúcho as a temporary solution.

“If none of them are available, I would consider Renato Gaúcho, as he has the ability to quickly unite the squad and turn the situation around,” Ronaldo added.

Brazil has been without a head coach since last Friday, following the dismissal of Dorival Junior after the team’s 4-1 defeat against Argentina in a World Cup qualifier.

Currently, the five-time World Cup champions sit fourth in the South American qualifying standings, trailing Argentina by 10 points.

Additionally, Ronaldo criticized Brazil’s coaching development structure, arguing that the current training programs are inadequate for a football powerhouse like Brazil.

“Our football desperately needs more professional coaches, but the national training system is too limited. It should be expanded across all 27 states to properly nurture future talents,” he emphasized.