The club's decision to opt for a domestic coach is largely driven by the need for immediate results in the 2026 season. With a strong focus on finding a suitable candidate, the club's board and scouting department are holding a series of meetings to determine the desired profile for the next coach. This comes after the club's current interim coach, Rodrigo Bellão, was appointed following the previous coach's departure.
Renato Gaúcho's name was considered for the position, but the club rejected him due to strong fan rejection. This decision was likely influenced by the controversy surrounding Gaúcho's past, including a 1992 incident where he participated in a churrasco with Flamengo players during the Brasileirão final. Gaúcho later explained the incident in March 2025, stating that he would do it again.
The Grêmio club had previously opened conversations to try to repatriate Renato Gaúcho after Luís Castro's dismissal. However, the Botafogo club has now shifted its focus to finding a coach who can deliver immediate results in the 2026 season.
The club plans to have a new coach in place by the start of the Data Fifa date, on September 21. Until then, Rodrigo Bellão will continue to lead the team's activities at the Espaço Lonier.