‘Always support your players’ - Jose Peseiro to Nigerians amidst rumours of a Super Eagles return

Former Super Eagles boss José Peseiro on the sideline. || Imago

‘Always support your players’ - Jose Peseiro to Nigerians amidst rumours of a Super Eagles return

Kolawole Babatunde 16:07 - 06.03.2024

Ex-Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has called for more support for the team as reports continue to suggest a possible return to the role for the Portuguese.

After leading the Super Eagles to the silver medal in the last Africa Cup of Nations, Peseiro left his role as his contract expired in the same month. 

However, there have been rumours of a possible return to the Super Eagles setup for the Portuguese, who reportedly has several offers on the table from club sides and other national teams. 

Peseiro shows gratitude and calls for more support for the team

While there are reports of plans to retain Jose Peseiro as Super Eagles head coach with an enhanced contract offer, the former Porto coach has taken to his social media account to express gratitude for the support he received during his time in the role. 

“I want to thank all Nigerians and the entire press for the interest, support, and encouragement given to the Super Eagles while I was their coach," he wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) account, @JosePeseiro

The 63-year-old also called for more support for the team going forward, pointing out how much the players sacrifice for the country.

“I would like to ask all of you to always support your players. These athletes give their all for the Super Eagles, taking pride in representing their country. The players make sacrifices to bring you joy. The Super Eagles deserve all your support, which will be very important for the great challenges that lie ahead,” he added.

Peseiro receives arrears but not open to return

Jose Peseiro

As reported by Pulse Sports, the former Porto manager has received his outstanding salaries for 17 months, totaling $850,000 (over ₦1.3 billion). 

However, despite getting paid his due fee, the Portuguese is not open to returning to the Super Eagles setup as he is looking to take up a managerial role elsewhere. 

This leaves Nigeria with the job of searching for a suitable replacement before the upcoming World Cup qualifiers in June against South Africa and Gernot Rohr’s Benin Republic.