Who will be next Super Eagles coach? Top 3 NPFL contenders to replace Peseiro
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Former Super Eagles manager, Jose Peseiro | Imago

Who will be next Super Eagles coach? Top 3 NPFL contenders to replace Peseiro

Izuchukwu Akawor 07:42 - 02.03.2024

The Super Eagles managerial seat is vacant after Jose Peseiro's departure and the NFF could announce a replacement from the NPFL.

With Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro and the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, parting ways this week, the search is on for a new manager to lead the national team.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that Peseiro confirmed his exit as Nigeria’s coach after a 22-month spell that ended with an impressive run to the AFCON 2023 final in Cote d’Ivoire.

While some foreign names will likely be considered, several contenders from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) could take the reins.

NPFL coaches for Super Eagles

  • Finidi George, Enyimba

Leading this list is former national team winger Finidi George, the current boss of Enyimba FC, who is one strong candidate. 

Finidi George has impressed at Enyimba and was assistant to Jose Peseiro in the Super Eagles.
Finidi George has impressed at Enyimba and was assistant to Jose Peseiro in the Super Eagles.

George led the People’s Elephant to their ninth NPFL title in his second year with the Aba giants last season and are on course to successfully defend their title. 

While his time playing in LaLiga and Ajax gives him experience and pedigree, Finidi also has the advantage of being in the Super Eagles setup having been assistant to former manager Peseiro.

Finidi George in action during his Super Eagles days.
Finidi George in action during his Super Eagles days.
  • Daniel Ogunmodede, Remo Stars

Daniel Ogunmodede has impressed since taking over at Remo Stars, leading them to a top-two finish this season and a historic place in the CAF Champions League.

Ogunmodede is known for his famous philosophy ‘Ijaball’ which is an interesting style of play that is centred around controlled possession while leveraging the strength of individuality. 

Remo Stars head coach Daniel Ogunmodede is known for his stylish outfits as well.
Remo Stars head coach Daniel Ogunmodede is known for his stylish outfits as well.

His Sky Blues have become a side that fights on and off the ball while his work with young players and his impressive dress sense could also appeal.

  • Fidelis Ilechukwu, Enugu Rangers

Then there is seasoned NPFL coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, who has earned credibility with his body of work at NPFL clubs like MFM, Plateau United and Enugu Rangers. 

Rangers manager, Fidelis Ilechukwu is at home in Enugu.
Rangers manager, Fidelis Ilechukwu is at home in Enugu. (Photo Credit: Rangers/X)

Ilechukwu appears to have found a home in Enugu, where he is the current head coach of the Flying Antelopes, Rangers. 

The passionate and enigmatic manager is revered for his brotherly and fatherly relationship with his players. He knows the local game inside out.

Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu engaged in a traditional handshake. (Photo Credit: Screenshot)

Bonus Names

Other names worth considering include Kennedy Boboye, who has won the NPFL twice with Akwa United and Plateau United. 

Abdul Maikaba, the current Kano Pillars manager, is famed for his brilliant possession football, and Lobi Stars manager Eugene Agagbe, leading his side to a dreamy title charge this season.

Kennedy Boboye is a two-time NPFL winner.
Kennedy Boboye is a two-time NPFL winner.

Whoever does land the role will have big shoes to fill after Peseiro helped Nigeria pick up a silver medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

But with an abundance of domestic and foreign talents to choose from, a Nigerian coach may be best placed to build on the platform left by Peseiro.

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