Former Milan coach Leonardo ready for Brazil job

(GSM) – Leonardo has put himself forward for the Brazil job just a few days after Dunga was sacked.

Dunga was dismissed a couple of days after Brazil’s defeat to the Netherlands in the World Cup quarter-finals.

“I don’t believe that Brazil did badly,” Leonardo told Sky Italia. “In the group stages, they won their first two matches, playing very well and drew 0-0 with Portugal in the game that decided first place in the group. Then they won against Chile and played a great first half against Holland, dominating the game, but scoring only one goal.

“The only negative thing that I can say about Brazil is that they didn’t know how to manage a difficult moment, because they conceded a goal on account of a defensive error made by Julio Cesar and Felipe Melo. And from that point onwards it was a different game.

“In general, it wasn’t a brilliant team, but it was a very competitive Brazil.”

When asked to reveal whether he was disappointed that Milan players Ronaldinho and Alexandre Pato hadn’t been called up, Leonardo said: “I have a direct relationship with them. Last year we were very close, but not because they are Brazilians. Because they are important players.

“Ronaldinho’s year was one of personal redemption. I believe that it was beautiful to see him return to a certain level, also because he reorganised some things in his private life.”

Leonardo then gave his reaction to reports that he is a candidate to take over at the Brazil team.

“Honestly, I don’t know anything. I have never spoken with the Federation, the only thing that I know is what comes out in the Press. I believe that it’s a strange moment for Brazil, it was a premature exit and it was unexpected.

“There are very important years in front of us because Brazil will host the World Cup finals for the first time in 64 years.

“The coaching bug is very dangerous… I don’t know if you can say no or yes to the Brazil job. What I know is that we need to build a real project. I am not looking for a job, I am looking for a dream. I have decided to be available for everything.

“If I were to choose my path, perhaps it wouldn’t be the right moment. It’s been 20 years since I have been away from Brazil. I am thinking about making myself available. So I believe there is a need for a new management. I have decided to put myself forward. If nothing happens, I will decide what to do afterwards.”