According to reports in the Nigerian media, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has purportedly extended an enhanced contract offer to outgoing Nigeria coach José Peseiro, proposing his continued tenure as the head coach of the Super Eagles.
Peseiro, aged 63, assumed the role of Nigeria coach in May 2022, and his sole tournament at the helm of the Super Eagles was the AFCON 2024, during which he guided the team to a runner-up finish in Ivory Coast.
The Portuguese coach's contract with the NFF officially concluded on February 29, 2024.
Speculation arose regarding Peseiro's reluctance to agree to a contract extension, prompting considerations of pursuing opportunities elsewhere, with multiple countries reportedly expressing interest in his services.
In a statement published on his X handle, he expressed, “Yesterday, we concluded our contract with the NFF. It was a pride and honor to coach the Super Eagles. It has been 22 months of immense dedication, sacrifice, emotion, and enormous enthusiasm. We feel a sense of fulfillment.”
He proceeded to extend his gratitude to former NFF boss Amaju Pinnick for his pivotal role in securing the Super Eagles job. Additionally, he was effusive in his praise for the current NFF hierarchy.
During his tenure as coach, Peseiro oversaw the Super Eagles in 23 matches over the period, securing victory in 11 matches and drawing four.
What is Peseiro's salary request as Nigeria coach?
According to reports, Peseiro is seeking a salary of $120,000 and has additionally requested that his first assistants and goalkeeper's trainer be included on the NFF's payroll.
However, the NFF has countered with an improved offer of $80,000 after Peseiro declined their initial proposal of $50,000.
The Minister for Sports, John Enoh, is adamant about retaining the 63-year-old as Nigeria coach for the remaining 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, with their strong rapport playing a significant role in this determination.
What will happen to Eguavoen if Peseiro returns as Nigeria coach?
Augustine Eguavoen was recently appointed as the interim coach of the Super Eagles following reports of Peseiro's departure from his role as Nigeria coach.
Eguavoen will hold the position until a new contract is offered or until a new coach is recruited.
The 58-year-old Eguavoen brings a wealth of experience to his role, having previously served as the technical director of the national team from 2020 to 2021.
Additionally, he has acted as the caretaker coach of the Super Eagles on two occasions: first in 2010 and then again from 2021 to 2022.
During his second tenure as caretaker coach, Eguavoen led Nigeria to the round of 16 in AFCON 2021.
However, his efforts were not enough to secure qualification for the Qatar 2022 World Cup, as the Super Eagles were defeated by rivals Ghana in the playoff.
However, with Peseiro's potential reinstatement, Eguavoen's role may undergo a transition.
Whether he resumes his previous position as technical director or continues to contribute in another capacity, Eguavoen's dedication and contributions to Nigerian football are undeniable.
His legacy as both a player and coach will continue to inspire generations, regardless of the outcome of this managerial change.
