Nigeria’s Super Eagles are at a critical juncture, needing new leadership following disappointing performances under head coach Finidi George. Despite initial optimism, marked by a significant win against Ghana, recent results—a draw with South Africa and a damaging loss to the Benin Republic—have dented Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes. With Finidi George stepping down, the Nigeria Football Federation is eyeing a foreign coach to guide the team forward. Here are ten compelling candidates, as outlined by Soccernet.ng’s Imhons Erons, who could lead the Super Eagles into a new era:

1. Hervé Renard Hervé Renard’s illustrious international coaching career makes him an unconventional yet compelling choice. He led Zambia to their first Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 2012 and repeated this success with Cote d’Ivoire in 2015. Renard also guided the French women’s national team to the quarterfinals of the FIFA Women’s World Cup and led Saudi Arabia to a stunning victory over Argentina at Qatar 2022. His player management skills could address the reported discord within the Super Eagles camp, making him an ideal candidate to instil discipline and unity.
2. Jurgen Klopp Jurgen Klopp’s transformative tenure at Liverpool, highlighted by winning the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League, underscores his managerial pedigree. Known for his dynamic playing style and charismatic leadership, Klopp’s ability to inspire teams could rejuvenate a Super Eagles squad hungry for success. His recent departure from Liverpool aligns perfectly with Nigeria’s quest for a seasoned mentor capable of navigating high-stakes international competitions.
3. José Pékerman José Pékerman’s extensive international coaching experience positions him as a seasoned tactician. He guided Argentina to the 2006 World Cup quarterfinals and achieved success with Colombia, leading them to multiple World Cup appearances. Pékerman’s strategic acumen and nurturing approach could elevate Nigeria’s promising roster to new heights on the continental and global stage.
4. Milutin Sredojević (Micho) Milutin Sredojević, known as Micho, has a storied coaching career marked by success across various African clubs and national teams. He led Uganda to their first Africa Cup of Nations appearance in 38 years and has held significant roles with Orlando Pirates and Zamalek SC. Micho’s understanding of African football dynamics and track record of transforming teams into formidable contenders positions him as a compelling candidate for Nigeria.
5. Claude Le Roy Claude Le Roy’s extensive coaching career spans several decades, highlighted by leading Cameroon to second place in the 1986 Africa Cup of Nations and winning the trophy in 1988. His success with Ghana, including a historic FIFA World Ranking of 14th, underscores his adept management of African national teams. Le Roy’s mentorship qualities could guide Nigeria through crucial qualifiers and revitalize the Super Eagles’ competitive edge.
6. Vahid Halilhodžić Vahid Halilhodžić’s managerial journey spans prestigious clubs and national teams, demonstrating his ability to transform struggling teams. He led Algeria to the round of 16 at the 2014 World Cup and has had significant stints with Japan and Nantes. His deep experience at the international level makes him a compelling candidate to guide Nigeria’s Super Eagles towards sustained success.
7. Pitso Mosimane Pitso Mosimane’s coaching career is synonymous with success, particularly with South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns and Egypt’s Al Ahly. Mosimane led Sundowns to multiple league titles and a historic CAF Champions League victory, and achieved back-to-back CAF Champions League trophies with Al Ahly. His extensive experience and proven track record make him an ideal candidate to elevate Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
8. Tom Saintfiet Tom Saintfiet’s diverse coaching career includes historic milestones with Gambia’s national team, such as their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations qualification and a quarterfinal appearance. Known for his tactical versatility and commitment to player development, Saintfiet’s international experience makes him a promising candidate to foster sustainable success for Nigeria.
9. Avram Grant Avram Grant’s managerial journey includes leading Ghana’s Black Stars to the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals and a historic FIFA Ranking. His tenure at Chelsea, where he guided the team to the UEFA Champions League final, highlights his understanding of global football dynamics. Grant’s experience positions him as a formidable candidate to guide Nigeria’s Super Eagles to their full potential.
10. Jorge Costa Jorge Costa’s coaching career is marked by resilience and tactical ingenuity. Starting with SC Braga, Costa achieved notable success in domestic and European competitions and has since taken up challenging roles in Romania, Cyprus, and India. His coaching philosophy, emphasizing discipline and defensive organization, could address the Super Eagles’ recent shortcomings and guide them towards sustained success.