Tite's emotional return lights up Corinthians anniversary | OneFootball

Tite was at the heart of Corinthians’ celebration this weekend, taking centre stage as the club marked 12 years since its historic 2012 Libertadores triumph, according to Globo and UOL. The commemorative event at Pacaembu brought together members of that title-winning squad, their coach, and around 10,000 fans for a day steeped in nostalgia and gratitude.

Though Tite stepped back from returning as first-team manager earlier this year due to health concerns, his presence dominated the afternoon. Players and staff, from Emerson Sheik to Alessandro, showered him with affectionate tributes during both private and public moments. Tite responded in kind, visibly moved by the reception and the flood of memories that came rushing back.

Pre-match, Tite did not treat the occasion as a mere exhibition. Instead, he delivered a focused, motivational team talk at the hotel reminiscent of the high-stakes environment of 2012. “I was relaxed, but Tite gave a real talk and I got genuinely anxious,” former left-back Fábio Santos admitted. “It couldn’t feel like just a friendly. He approached it as if it were 2012 again.” Santos would go on to score for Corinthians in the 1-1 draw with Boca Juniors’ legends.

On the touchline, Tite’s familiar “linha dura” approach resurfaced. Throughout the match, he offered tactical directions, voiced concern over positioning, and demanded commitment, mirroring the competitive spirit that defined his tenure. At breaks, the focus remained—discussions centred on adjustments and motivation, not just recollections.

After the final whistle, Tite opened up about how returning to Pacaembu brought “saudade,” describing the event as magical and filled with mutual respect. “There are places that are special, that offer something different—where you feel embraced,” he said. “This team had that. It was magic, very special.” Tite also reflected on his coaching philosophy, emphasizing that his own errors came not from any ill intent but from limitations in ability—a humility that resonated with the group.

The players made clear how much Tite shaped both their careers and character. Emerson Sheik, key in the 2012 final, was particularly candid: “I became a better son, brother, and father. In my phone, he’s ‘Pai Tite.’ It’s redundant to talk about him as a professional, but I owe a lot to him for making me a better person.” Alessandro, then the captain, maintained that the teacher-student bond with Tite continues to this day—a source of guidance and friendship beyond football.

The emotional reunion was not just a walk through history but a vivid reminder of the standards and unity forged in 2012. For one day, at least, Tite had “come back”—not in a contractual sense, but in the way that mattered most to the champions he led and the fans who still revere him.

(Sources: Globo, UOL)

Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images