Nigeria is gearing up to face Argentina, El Salvador, South Africa, and Benin Republic in upcoming football clashes, but uncertainty looms over the coaching situation for the Super Eagles, Soccernet.ng reports.
Following the end of Jose Peseiro’s contract after the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, discussions regarding his potential renewal have been ongoing.
Despite leading the team to the semi-final of the 34th edition of the Nations Cup—meeting the requirements for a contract renewal—negotiations remain unresolved.
As the Super Eagles prepare to take on Argentina and El Salvador in March, and later in June for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic, the absence of a coach poses a significant challenge.
Opinions within the Nigerian football community are divided, with some advocating for Peseiro’s continuation while others argue for the consideration of a local coach due to financial concerns.
Despite the uncertainty, Nigerian vice-captain William Troost-Ekong expressed support for Peseiro, citing the team's performance in reaching the final of the 2023 AFCON.
“Yes. I think the players are happy with him. Reaching the final is something significant and also something we can build on,” The PAOK defender told CNN.
Amidst speculations linking Peseiro to coaching roles elsewhere, including the Algerian national team and Zamalek SC, unresolved salary issues have further complicated contract negotiations.
While the Nigerian Football Federation has addressed salary backlog issues, delays persist in finalizing Peseiro’s contract renewal.
With Emmanuel Amuneke emerging as a potential candidate for the coaching role, it is imperative for the Nigerian football body to swiftly resolve the coaching situation to ensure proper preparation for upcoming matches.
NB: Do you think the Nigeria Football Federation should renew Jose Peseiro’s contract? Leave your comments below.
lt is wise to retain Coach peseiro to build on the success at the afcon ’24: and considering the very fact that the world cup,nations cup qualifiers and friendlies are around the corner.NFF should not fall to local coach lobbies for the result from such will not be pleasing. let peseiro enjoy the euphoria of the success and build on it. Thanks.