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Renato Paiva’s brief tenure at Botafogo has come to an end, just months after his appointment, following the club's exit from the FIFA Club World Cup at the hands of Palmeiras.
The Rio de Janeiro-based side confirmed Paiva's departure in a social media statement late on Sunday, less than 48 hours after their 1-0 extra-time defeat in the last 16 of the competition. The loss, which came via a 100th-minute goal by Paulinho, marked the final match of the Portuguese manager’s four-month spell in charge.
“Botafogo announces that Renato Paiva is no longer the head coach of the first team,” the club wrote. “The decision was communicated to the professional on Sunday night. The club thanks Paiva and his assistants for their services rendered to the Glorioso in recent months – with special mention to the historic victory against Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup, and the qualification for the round of 16 in the Libertadores and Copa do Brasil.”
Appointed on February 27, Paiva stepped into the role shortly after Botafogo’s South American Recopa defeat. His debut came against Palmeiras in the opening round of the Brasileirão, which ended in a goalless draw. Across 23 matches, Paiva recorded 12 wins, three draws, and eight losses, with a win rate of 56.52%.
Despite a rocky start in continental competition and domestic league play, Botafogo rebounded under Paiva’s guidance, advancing to the round of 16 in both the Copa Libertadores and Copa do Brasil. Notably, the team’s Club World Cup run included a statement win over European giants Paris Saint-Germain, as well as a group stage triumph over the Seattle Sounders. These results earned Botafogo second place in Group B ahead of Atlético de Madrid, setting up the now-fateful clash with Palmeiras.
The dismissal follows a challenging period for Botafogo, who currently sit six points behind Flamengo in the league. The club last won the Brazilian title under former boss Artur Jorge and are now searching for fresh leadership to restore their domestic and continental ambitions.
While no successor has been announced yet, Botafogo are not scheduled to return to domestic action until July 16, when they take on Vitoria.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @botafogo
