Dunga sympathises with Scolari over Chelsea sacking

February 10, 2009

LONDON (AFP) – Brazil national coach Dunga spoke out in support of Luiz Felipe Scolari following his dismissal by English Premier League side Chelsea on Monday.

Scolari was relieved of his managerial duties with the West London club following a record of 20 victories from 36 matches in charge this season.

The Brazilian is highly regarded back in his homeland, and indeed led the national side to success in the 2002 World Cup.

Dunga, currently preparing the side for an international friendly in London against World Champions Italy, took time to reflect on Scolari’s reputation and is confident he will soon return to the game.

"There is no doubt about Scolari being an established coach despite the fact he was sacked today (Monday)," he said.

"Scolari is a world champion. Manchester United manager (Sir Alex) Ferguson is a very strange case here, he is the only one in charge of one club for many years.

"European and Brazilian trainers do not have time with the team to get to know each other.

"It’s difficult, a question of time. There is no doubt he (Scolari) will find a new job. He won titles with Palmeiras and national teams. There is no doubt about his quality.

"Every job has its difficulties and pressure. Football is under scrutiny all the time and the coach has to get to know the players to get the best out of them."

Midfielder Gilberto Silva spoke moments before Scolari’s exit was made public, and felt the Brazilian needed more time to make an impact on Chelsea’s side.

"It’s hard to transform a club when you’re a new coach, Mourinho’s had problems in his first year (at Inter), some other managers have the same problem adapting but they need time," he said.

"Maybe the next year will be stronger and the team will do well but the squad has a lot of quality."

Italy coach Marcello Lippi also has sympathy for the Brazilian.

"It’s a surprise," he said. "I feel sorry for him. He is a good person, very funny. But this is a part of the job that happens."

Written by: AFP

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