The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced an opening for the role of head coach of the Super Eagles.
Nigeria have been without a head coach after Jose Peseiro’s contract officially came to an end in February 2024 after a 22-month spell in charge.
Peseiro’s stint started with a lot of doubts but he eventually ended on a high when he led the Super Eagles to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2024) in the Ivory Coast.
However, the Portuguese tactician could not reach an agreement with the NFF over an extension, which led to his departure at the end of February.
NFF accepting applications for role of Nigeria coach
The NFF has now declared the Super Eagles coaching job vacant as the search for a new head coach begins in earnest.
A statement on the Federation’s website said it is looking for passionate and proven coaches to lead the national team to bigger things on the international stage.
“Attention passionate and proven football coaches! The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is looking for a visionary leader to take the helm of our Senior Men’s National Team, the mighty Super Eagles!” the NFF’s statement said.
“This is your chance to lead a team steeped in history and guide them towards even greater glory on the international stage. Are you ready to answer the call?
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make history with Nigerian football. If you’re a coach who thrives on pressure and dreams of etching your name in footballing lore, we want to hear from you!”
Criteria for next Super Eagles coach
Meanwhile, the NFF also listed the requirements that must be met by potential candidates seeking to become the next Super Eagles coach.
The Federation said the candidates must possess the highest qualification in coaching and must have proven experience in managing at the top level.
The criteria also include a successful track record of leading teams to victories, while having knowledge of African football is an added advantage.
This latest update by the NFF ends speculation that technical director Augustine Eguavoen was in line to be named interim coach of the Super Eagles.
Eguavoen previously managed Nigeria as a stop-gap coach from 2020 to 2021 and led the country to the round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon before being relieved of his post after Nigeria were beaten by Ghana in the 2022 World Cup playoffs.
NFF declares Super Eaglets coaching role vacant
Meanwhile, the NFF has also declared the coaching role for the U17 male national team (the Super Eaglets) vacant.
In a separate statement, the NFF said all passionate coaches interested in the job were welcome to put in an application. The Federation, however, noted that candidates must have a knack for nurturing talents.
“Do you have what it takes to coach the Golden Eaglets? Calling all passionate youth football coaches!” the statement said.
“The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is on the hunt for a talented and dedicated coach to lead the next generation of football stars: the Golden Eaglets, our U-17 Boys National Team. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of Nigerian football by nurturing young talent and guiding them to achieve success on the international stage.”
The criteria for the vacant Super Eaglets coaching job include having a proven track record of developing and coaching youth football players and an ability to inspire and motivate young athletes. All candidates are also expected to hold at least a CAF B coaching license to be considered for the job.
“Being the Head Coach of the Golden Eaglets is more than just a job; it’s a chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of young footballers and contribute to the legacy of Nigerian football,” the NFF added in their statement.
