Scolari set to be named new Brazil boss

BRASILIA - Reuters

Luiz Felipe Scolari is set to return to the Brazilian national team, where he enjoyed a World Cup victory in 2002. AP Photo

Luiz Felipe Scolari is set to be named as the new coach of 2014 World Cup hosts Brazil today, a source close to Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) told Reuters yesterday.

Scolari, who led Brazil to its last World Cup title in 2002 and was heavily favored to take over, will replace Mano Menezes who was sacked last week.

Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) chief Jose Maria Marin confirmed he had chosen a coach but declined to give a name.

“We did a thorough evaluation and what we need is someone with the right skills, dedication and experience. I am absolutely certain that the fans will be happy with our choice,” CBF president Jose Maria Marin told reporters at an event in Sao Paulo.

“Pressure will be great at the World Cup, and that’s understandable, and we need someone who can cope with that,” said Marin, who added that the announcement would be made today but did not give a time or place.

“We need everyone to get behind the new coach,” he added.

Scolari also coached Portugal between 2003 and 2008.

While Marin was making the announcement, national teams director Andres Sanchez had handed in his resignation. Sanchez had already said he was opposed to sacking Menezes and had not been consulted.