The seek for a brand new head coach for Nigeria’s Tremendous Eagles could quickly conclude, because the Nigeria Soccer Federation (NFF) makes vital strides in its quest.
Discovering Finidi’s Substitute
The place turned vacant following the resignation of Finidi George in June, prompted by the NFF’s resolution to nominate a overseas technical adviser.
George’s tenure noticed a shaky begin, together with a vital defeat to Benin Republic that jeopardized Nigeria’s standing within the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Underneath his management, the Tremendous Eagles managed a 1-1 draw towards South Africa at dwelling in Uyo and suffered a 2-1 loss to Benin Republic in Abidjan.
These outcomes left Nigeria’s qualification for the World Cup in critical doubt, extending their winless streak within the qualifiers.
The Tremendous Eagles now sit fifth in Group C, forward of solely Zimbabwe and are getting ready to lacking back-to-back FIFA World Cup.
The NFF has been actively looking for George’s successor and has been linked with a number of high-profile coaches, together with Harve Renard, Tom Saintefiet, Steve McLaren, and Eric Chelle.
With McLaren now out of the working after taking the Jamaica head coach place, the NFF’s choices have narrowed.
Herve Renard the Quantity One Candidate
Renard is reportedly the popular candidate, bolstered by his current departure from the French Soccer Federation.
An NFF govt, talking anonymously to SportsBoom.com, confirmed contact with Renard however famous some challenges.
“Harve Renard’s achievements in Africa are well-known, and we’ve got made contact. Nonetheless, such offers are advanced as a result of varied components, together with monetary issues,” the supply advised SportsBoom.com.
“We’re dedicated to discovering the very best coach who suits the crew’s profile and monetary constraints.”
Tom Saintefiet Underneath Consideration
Belgian coach Tom Saintefiet, at present heading the Philippines nationwide crew, can also be within the working. Saintefiet, who beforehand coached Gambia, has expressed curiosity in managing Nigeria’s star-studded squad.
The NFF govt acknowledged his potential, saying, “He’s coach, and the door is open for each certified candidate.”
Renard’s reported wage demand of $180,000 per 30 days (roughly N23 billion) could also be a hurdle, making candidates like Saintefiet and Eric Chelle extra viable.
Each coaches have in depth expertise in African soccer and are seen as reasonably priced choices. They’re open to short-term contracts overlaying the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, with the potential of extension.
The Activity at Hand
The rapid process for the brand new Tremendous Eagles coach will likely be to safe qualification for the 2025 AFCON, competing towards Libya, Benin, and Rwanda.
Nigeria reached the ultimate of final AFCON version, shedding 2-1 to the hosts Cote d’Ivoire.
