Tite and Willian spark controversy ahead of Copa América final

Topics: Copa América, Brazil, Peru, Willian, Tite

Neymar's replacement and the team's tactician have made headlines for different reasons before the big game on Sunday.

Just when Brazilian footballers should be focused on winning the 2019 Copa América, a couple of reports have fans worried about the team's interest in securing their ninth title in this competition.

Earlier today, reports by the international press revealed that Brazilian playmaker Willian, who made his way into the squad as Neymar's replacement, will not be playing in the tournament's final after picking up a thigh injury in the game against Argentina.

While Chelsea's footballer was not a regular starter for Tite's men, his presence will be missed as a reliable replacement, which was proven when he scored a great goal against Peru in the group stage of the tournament.

The other report, published by ESPN, has to do with the team's tactician. Addenor Bacchi "Tite" is considering to step down as Brazil's boss after Sunday's match. The reason behind this decision would be his disagreement with the Brazilian Football Confederation regarding the departures of Sylvinho and Edu Gaspar, two of his closest collaborators since he became Brazil's boss.

Gaspar, currently working as Brazil's sporting director, has been linked with a move to Arsenal, where he would be handed a similar position. As for Sylvinho, Tite's former assistant left the team to become Olympique Lyon's coach, which was also frowned upon by the South American coach.

Tite's resignation would come at a complicated time for Brazil, since those named as his potential replacements don't have universal support from fans and experts. Gremio's Renato Gaucho and former coach Mano Menezes are being tipped as Tite's would-be replacements, but the main goal for the CBF will be to keep Tite around, mainly because he has only lost two of his 41 games as Brazil's main man.

Brazil is set to play against Perú in the 2019 Copa América final this Sunday. If A Canarinha wins, the team will end a 12-year drought since their last South American title.