Brazilian football clubs in chaos after hiring the same manager

Nacional de Patos and Americano-RJ both announced the appointment of Marcelinho Paraíba as their new manager within the space of 24 hours.

The unprecedented situation has raised questions about contract overlaps and coaching commitments.

Marcelinho, 48, was first confirmed as Nacional de Patos’ manager for the remainder of the Campeonato Paraibano season.

The announcement came on Sunday, with the club stating, “We welcome Marcelinho Paraíba as our new head coach for the final phase of our campaign.” However, just hours later, Americano-RJ declared him as their new coach for the upcoming Campeonato Carioca Second Division, which begins in May.

This managerial mix-up has stunned the Brazilian football community.

According to reports, Nacional de Patos expects Paraíba to see out their final three matches of the state championship before moving on to his new role.

“We have a short-term agreement, and he will fulfil his duties here before leaving,” said a club spokesperson.

Double the work! Marcelinho announced as coach of two Brazilian clubs https://t.co/DQucmfrsK0 pic.twitter.com/odJdtHiRVJ

— Reuters (@Reuters) February 10, 2025

Americano-RJ, meanwhile, remains confident in their choice. Club president Carlos Abreu clarified, “Marcelinho was always our main target, and his appointment for the 2024 season has been in our plans for months.”

The Carioca Second Division begins in late May, meaning there would be no direct overlap in coaching responsibilities.

Marcelinho, a former attacking midfielder who played for clubs such as São Paulo, Grêmio, and Hertha Berlin, transitioned into management after retiring in 2020. His coaching career has included short spells at Treze and Araguacema.

The double appointment is highly unusual in Brazilian football, where clubs generally secure exclusivity with their coaches. However, given the different timelines of both contracts, there is technically no breach. Paraíba has yet to publicly address the situation, but insiders suggest he is committed to both roles without issue.

While Nacional de Patos focuses on avoiding relegation in the Campeonato Paraibano, Americano-RJ eyes a promotion push in the Carioca Second Division.