Former Super Eagles player and manager Sunday Oliseh has criticised the Nigeria Football Federation's (NFF) approach to finding the next Nigeria coach.
The departure of Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro post the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2024) in Ivory Coast left the role open.
The NFF posted an advertisement on its website, inviting applications with a deadline set for March 13. Oliseh, among other coaches, was linked to the vacant Super Eagles managerial role.
However, the 49-year-old has denied ever applying for the position.
Sunday Oliseh questions NFF's recruitment methods
In response to reports suggesting his application for the Eagles job, Oliseh clarified, “I did not apply for the Eagles job, reports that stated so are false.”
He further explained his stance, stating, “I only stated that if Nigeria needed my help as a coach I would be willing to help if the conditions are right. I’m open to helping Nigeria but I did not apply for the job.”
Drawing parallels to high-profile coaching transitions, Oliseh questioned the traditional application process, highlighting the case of Jurgen Klopp's departure from Liverpool: “Let’s look at it this way, when Jurgen Klopp came out last month to announce that he was leaving his position as coach of Liverpool, did you hear or read anywhere that the club announced that coaches should apply for the job?”
He stressed the Merseyside club's approach, noting, “The only thing they (Liverpool) are doing currently is that they are in search of a coach that fits their philosophy and style.”
In 2015, Oliseh took the helm as manager of the Super Eagles, achieving an impressive record: 14 games with only 2 losses, scoring 19 goals and conceding 6.
Under his leadership, Nigeria secured qualification for the CHAN tournament in Rwanda and advanced to the group phase of the 2018 World Cup qualifiers.
In his debut match as Chief Coach in an AFCON qualifier, he secured a draw against Tanzania. However, Oliseh resigned from his position on February 26, 2016, just a month before the team's encounter with Egypt in the AFCON qualifiers.
Despite being in the role for less than eight months, he cited contract violations, lack of support, and unpaid wages and benefits to his players, assistant coaches, and himself as reasons for his departure.
NFF set to name new Super Eagles manager next week
In a related development, the NFF are set to name a new manager for the Super Eagles next week. This is to allow the new manager ample time to prepare the team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Over 50 coaches have reportedly applied for the vacant position. However, one of Finidi George and Emmanuel Amunike has been tipped to get the nod.
George, currently serving as the interim manager of the Super Eagles, previously worked as one of Peseiro's assistants.
He was in charge when Nigeria engaged Ghana and Mali in friendlies a few days ago.
