Jose Mourinho to manage Brazil?! Fenerbahce boss set to rival Real Madrid's Carlo Ancelotti for Selecao job after being put on CBF shortlist

The Brazilian football federation (CBF) parted ways with Dorival Junior following the Selecao's heavy 4-1 loss to arch-rivals Argentina in World Cup qualifying. Now, according to Brazilian outlet Globo, Fenerbahce boss Mourinho is one of four high-profile names being considered by the CBF to replace Dorival and lead the Selecao in their push to secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Alongside Mourinho are Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti, Al Hilal boss Jorge Jesus, and Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira. The quartet represents a blend of experienced European minds and successful figures from the South American club circuit.

Ancelotti has long been admired by the CBF, and although he has flirted with the idea of managing Brazil, the Italian has publicly stated that his current role at Real Madrid will be his final managerial post. While the CBF has not completely given up hope, Jesus is currently viewed as the most probable candidate due to his previous experience in Brazilian football at Flamengo and more immediate availability.

Mourinho’s stint at Fenerbahce has been anything but serene. Since arriving in Istanbul ten months ago, the former Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Roma boss has courted controversy with his frequent criticism of match officials, which has led to several touchline bans.

His team’s form has taken a hit in recent weeks, with Fenerbahce suffering a Europa League elimination at the hands of Rangers and crashing out of the Turkish Cup following a painful defeat to arch-rivals Galatasaray. These setbacks have ramped up pressure on Mourinho, whose side now sits second in the Turkish Super League table, trailing Galatasaray by three points.

While Brazil offer a historic and high-pressure opportunity, it remains to be seen whether Mourinho would be willing to walk away from his Fenerbahce project so soon. The upcoming clash with Sivasspor on Sunday is another crucial game in the club’s quest for Super Lig glory, and if the Portuguese indeed manages to topple Galatasaray, he might continue with his Istanbul sojourn.