The Nigeria Football Federation is set to name a new coach for the Super Eagles ahead of their World Cup Qualifiers against South Africa and the Republic of Benin scheduled for June.
The national has been without a substantial coach since the departure of Jose Peseiro, who led the side to finish second at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
The Portuguese tactician replaced Austin Eguavoen before the AFCON tournament and introduced a number of impressive changes to the team which helped the side to end a 10-year trophy drought, having last won a diadem in 2013.
Who are in contention for Super Eagles job?
Emmanuel Amuneke
Emmanuel Amuneke is in a pole position to clinch the Super Eagles job, having been shortlisted along with other coaches, who have signified their intentions.
The 53-year-old enjoyed success as a player, winning the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and among others trophies. After his retirement, he managed a number of teams, including Saudi Arabia’s side Al Hazm. He was in the elms of affair as Nigeria won the U-17 World Cup in 2005. The playing style of the team was well applauded as they mesimerised their opponents, opening defences with ease and scoring breath-taking goals.
Following the scintillating display, he was appointed as the coach of Tanzania and helped the team to qualify for the 2019 AFCON after 39 years. Their performances at the tournament was, however, not impressive as the team failed to progress past the group stage. Amuneke parted with the team on a mutual understanding after the showpiece.
Having previously had a spell with the Super Eagles as an assistant coach, it seems the time is ripe for the former Barcelona star to take full charge of the three-time African champions.
Finidi George
Finidi George was recently appointed as an interim coach of the Super Eagles and was in charge when they secured a 2-1 win over Ghana and lost 2-0 to Mali in internation friendly games.
The team’s performance against the Eagles Mali did not seem to impress the fans, subsequently, his hope of being named the substantial coach of the side became dim. Notwithstanding, he remains a contender for the top job.
Recently, former Super Eagles coach Samson Siasia complained that indigenous coaches are often not given sufficient time to succeed.
Siasia said:“They didn’t give Nigeria people four years, you lose one match, they fire you. That’s the truth. The white people will come, you give them more time, you pay them more money.”
Finidi was part of the team that won the 1994 AFCON trophy, after his retirement, the former Real Mallorca winger ventured into coaching and was named Nigerian Professional Football League side Enyimba. He went on to win the league title in 2021 with the club.
Michael Nsien
Michael Nsien is one of the contenders for the job. He is currently the United States of America national U-16 coach. He featured for US side Portland Timbers and also for Nigeria U-23 side.
The former defender has signalled his interest to coach the Super Eagles but will have to content with more experienced coaches.
According to Nigeria Minister of Sports John Enoh, the NFF will name a coach soon for the Super Eagles.
When employed, the new coach will play a key role in determining Nigeria qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
