Renato Paiva is no longer the head coach of Botafogo, the Brazilian club announced shortly after their 1-0 loss to Palmeiras in the FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 in the United States. The decision was made public Sunday night through an official club statement.

“Botafogo announces that Renato Paiva is stepping down as head coach of the senior team. The decision was communicated to him on Sunday evening,” the club posted on its official X account, thanking the Portuguese coach and his staff for their contributions over the past few months.

Mixed record in international tournaments

Despite the early exit, Paiva didn’t leave without highlights. He led Botafogo to a surprise win over Paris Saint-Germain in the group stage of the Club World Cup, helping the team advance to the knockouts. He also guided the club into the Round of 16 in both the Copa Libertadores and the Copa do Brasil.

“John Textor and the Football Department are actively searching for a new manager to take on the challenge of chasing more titles,” the club added, making it clear their ambitions remain high across the Brasileirão, Libertadores, and the elusive Copa do Brasil.

At 55, Renato Paiva brings international experience from coaching Independiente del Valle in Ecuador, León and Toluca in Mexico, and Bahia in Brazil, in addition to working with the youth ranks of Benfica. He took over Botafogo in February, following the departure of fellow Portuguese coach Artur Jorge, during a rough patch for the team. Now, the Rio de Janeiro side will look to quickly find a replacement who can steer the club back on track and make the most of a talented squad heading into a packed and decisive second half of the season.