Luiz Felipe Scolari, known by the nickname Felipão, transitioned from an uncompromising defender on the pitch to one of the most prominent football managers in history. Born in 1948 in Passo Fundo, Brazil, he navigated a career defined by high-stakes international tournaments and demanding club tenures across South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Early Career and Playing Days
Before entering management in 1982, Scolari played as a central defender for clubs including Caxias, Juventude, Novo Hamburgo, and CSA. Contemporaries often labeled him Perna-de-Pau, a term implying a lack of technical finesse, though he was valued for his physical strength and leadership. He captained his sides frequently and secured the 1981 Campeonato Alagoano with CSA, his only major title as a player.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Global Coaching Assignments
Following his retirement as a player, Scolari began coaching at CSA. His career expanded rapidly to include stints in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, where he won the Kuwait Emir Cup in 1989 and the 10th Gulf Cup. His club management in Brazil included successful tenures at Grêmio, where he won the 1987 Gaúcho championship and later the 1995 Copa Libertadores, and Palmeiras, where he captured the 1999 Copa Libertadores and the Mercosur Cup.
Success with Brazil and Portugal
Scolari managed the Brazil national team to a 2002 FIFA World Cup victory. He later moved to lead the Portugal national team, managing them at UEFA Euro 2004, where they reached the final, and the 2006 World Cup. He returned to Brazil for a second term in 2012, winning the 2013 Confederations Cup and reaching the semi-finals of the 2014 World Cup held in his home country.
Later Years and Honours
In 2015, Scolari joined the Chinese club Guangzhou Evergrande, winning both the Chinese Super League and the AFC Champions League during his first season. He returned to Palmeiras in 2018, securing another Brazilian league title. For his contributions to football, he was awarded the status of Commander of the Order of Prince Henry.
Fast facts
- Born: 1948, Passo Fundo, Brazil
- Nickname: Felipão
- Major Playing Title: 1981 Campeonato Alagoano
- 2002 World Cup Winner: Brazil national team
- Awards: Commander of the Order of Prince Henry
- Citizenship: Brazil and Italy
- Language: Brazilian Portuguese
Questions readers ask
Which major international trophies did Scolari win?
He won the 2002 FIFA World Cup and the 2013 Confederations Cup with Brazil, and the 10th Gulf Cup with Kuwait.
Did Scolari manage any European clubs?
Yes, he managed Chelsea in the Premier League.
Achievements
- Worked as association football player and association football coach
