OFFICIAL: Mano Menezes Becomes New Brazil Coach

Posted Sunday, July 25, 2010 by Goal.com

Mano Menezes is the new coach of Brazil after accepting to take over the Selecao on Saturday morning.

The 48-year-old is well known for his work in his homeland after having led a number of clubs out of difficulty in recent seasons. He thanked former club Corinthians for a 'special' three years together.

Menezes confirmed that he had said yes to the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), who had been turned down by Muricy Ramalho the day before after his club refused to release him.

"For the whole of Brazil, I say that I officially accept the invitation," he declared during a Corinthians press conference.

“I am thankful to Corinthians for my three years of work and friendship.”

The former Gremio tactician burst onto the scene when he led the former South American champions back into the top flight in 2005.

In just two seasons he took the club to a Copa Libertadores final where his men subsequently fell to the sword of Argentine outfit Boca Juniors.

After more recently carrying current side Corinthians out from the Brazilian second division, it is clear that the nation will be hoping Menezes can restore the Selecao with the winning mentality which has established them as the most successful international side.

The new coach will be expected to rebuild Brazil's national team following their hugely disappointing quarter-final World Cup exit against the Netherlands. Adding further pressure on an already demanding role, Menezes will be aware that only victory will do as the nation prepares to host the World Cup in 2014.