After weeks of speculation and a string of underwhelming results, Brazil has officially chosen Jorge Jesus to lead the Seleção through the remainder of their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign.

The Portuguese coach, currently with Saudi giants Al-Hilal, will take over from Dorival Junior, who was dismissed after Brazil’s crushing 4-1 defeat to Argentina in late March. With the Seleção sitting just fourth in the standings and under immense pressure, the CBF has decided to pay the €2.5 million release clause to bring Jesus in—marking a clear turn toward foreign leadership after recent domestic disappointments.

Jorge Jesus is no stranger to Brazilian football. His successful spell at Flamengo between 2019 and 2020, where he led the club to a historic treble, cemented his reputation in the country. Now 62, Jesus is expected to sign a contract until 2026, with a significantly reduced salary compared to his Al-Hilal wages. He beat out names like Filipe Luis, Renato Gaúcho, and Abel Ferreira, while Carlo Ancelotti, long linked with the role, remains tied to Real Madrid.

Beyond the urgent task of qualification, Jesus will also have to navigate tricky player relationships—including with Neymar, who famously clashed with the Portuguese coach at Al-Hilal before his exit.