As quoted by A Bola, former Brazil international and Ballon d’Or winner Rivaldo has stated he is against the Brazilian national team appointing a foreign coach. Following the departure of coach Tite after his team’s shock quarter-final exit to Croatia, support has been growing for the hiring of a European coach after recent poor displays against European opponents with Carlo Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola and Jorge Jesus mentioned as possibilities. Rivaldo, now 50, explained:
“I don’t agree with it, I think it shows a lack of respect for Brazilian coaches that the hiring of a foreign coach for our national team is being considered. I believe we have coaches capable of taking over the national team at this moment and doing a good job. Bringing in a foreign coach does not guarantee that we will be world champions… Foreigners are undoubtedly very good coaches too, but the Selecão is ours, our nation’s, and has to be managed by someone who has Brazilian blood running through his veins. The most important thing is the players, we have to help them, encourage them and give them confidence.”
GWFN
