Jose Peseiro Steps Down as Super Eagles Head Coach; Algeria Shows Interest
Written by Deborah Oyinloye on March 2, 2024
Jose Peseiro has officially resigned from his position as the head coach of Nigeria’s men’s football team, the Super Eagles. The Portuguese coach announced a statement on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Friday, March 1, 2024.
Peseiro cited the expiration of his contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the inability to reach a new deal as reasons for his departure. Having been appointed as Eagles head coach in 2022, Peseiro reflected on his tenure, describing it as “22 months of immense dedication, sacrifice, emotion, and enormous enthusiasm.”
Expressing gratitude to the players and officials at the NFF, Peseiro conveyed his appreciation, stating, “We will miss you, but we will always be there for you, no matter where you are.”
During his time as head coach, Peseiro led Nigeria to the final of the 34th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where they narrowly lost 2–1 to the host team, Ivory Coast. Despite clinching the silver medal, Peseiro’s tactical approach, which prioritized attacking creativity over defensive solidity, faced criticism from some fans.
Following his departure, the Algeria Football Federation has expressed interest in hiring Peseiro, impressed by his achievements with the Super Eagles. Algerian football officials, including President Walid Sadi, are reportedly considering Peseiro as a potential candidate to lead their national team.
While other candidates like Vladimir Petkovic and Carlos Queiroz are also under consideration, Peseiro emerges as the preferred choice due to his successful stint with Nigeria at the 2023 AFCON final.
According to the Algerian publication DZ Foot, discussions between Peseiro and the Algerian football federation are expected to take place, with financial considerations also playing a significant role in the decision-making process.