Readers' attention is drawn to an interview with the Brazilian coach Luis Felipe Scolari, the coach of the Portuguese national team. In the interview, the coach talks about the possibility of coaching the Brazilian national team again and about the European Championship, which will take place in Portugal this year.
Have you already decided which players will represent the Portuguese national team in the European Championship?
Yes, almost everything has been decided. Of course, the players have not finished their national championships yet, so I have to wait until May 23, but everything is already in my mind.
Portugal did not win any matches against their future opponents in the championship while preparing for the European Championship. Does this concern you?
Our results are certainly not normal and it does worry me a bit. All teams play to win, not just to prepare for the championship. I must admit that sometimes I get very worried, but it is natural when the team fails to win.
Do you believe you will be able to address the issues that concern you before the European Championship?
Of course. I think everything will be fine. The problem is that not all clubs were willing to release their players for friendly matches, and if they did, the players could not play at full force as they had to return unworn to their clubs.
In your opinion, is it easier to work with the Brazilian national team or the Portuguese one?
In Brazil, it is much easier to find substitutes for an injured player or if the player's club does not release him. But coaching both teams is difficult. There are no easy tasks in football.
Is working with players from Europe very different?
A bit. South Americans are warmer and more sincere people, whereas players in Europe are very serious.
Who do you consider the favorites for the European Championship?
I don't have a team that I support. Germany lost to Romania 5-1, and the Czech Republic lost to Japan. I really couldn't predict anything. I think eight or even ten teams could win the championship.
What are your plans after the European Championship?
I don't know for sure. As soon as the national championships end, clubs start looking for new coaches. I have a few offers from Portuguese clubs. I can't say for sure yet, but I would like to stay in Europe for another three or four years.
Are you not planning to return to Brazil for a longer period until then?
I received a very tempting offer from Brazil. A powerful club wants to do a project. If it were a project similar in scale to what "Palmeiras" did, I could quickly return to Brazil, but it seems they are rushing, and that project will take a couple of years to complete.
Did any European country's national team offer you a job?
No, but several South American national teams offered me a job.
Would you like to coach the Brazilian national team again?
That would be a very tempting offer. I would definitely like to work with the Brazilian national team again because I would have the opportunity to work with amazing players. I have always got along well with the national team players. I will never forget the Brazilian national team.
In your opinion, who is currently the best player in the world?
In my opinion, the best player in the world right now is Ronaldinho. He plays amazingly because he found a team that suits him perfectly. There are a few great players in Italy, such as Totti and Kaka.