The hunt for a new head coach for Nigeria’s Super Eagles has taken a fresh twist as former Manchester United youth coach Jonathan Hill publicly expressed interest in the coveted position.
The Super Eagles, three-time African champions, are without a permanent head coach following the departure of Finidi George in June. Interim manager Augustine Eguavoen guided the team to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). However, a shock home defeat to Rwanda in the final qualifier has put his future in doubt.
Speaking to Sportsblog247.com, Hill, who has a UEFA A Licence and years of coaching experience, voiced his desire to lead the Nigerian national team.
“This is a role I truly fancy because of its demanding nature and the likelihood it brings to push one to do their best,” Hill said. “Nigeria is a great, untapped talent pool. I enjoy the cultural and sporting experiences, and I know I do well with them. And the profile it offers—it’s a highly contested role. With my strong resume, you might wonder why I’m not working at present. It’s a mystery.”
The English coach has an extensive résumé, having worked with Manchester United and Manchester City U18 teams and served as an assistant manager at clubs like Fulham and Exeter City. However, his only senior managerial stint, at Norwegian club Tromsdalen, lasted just 20 months.
Hill also expressed optimism about the Super Eagles’ potential, particularly with World Cup qualification on the horizon. “You have to applaud the work already being done by Augustine and his crew. Qualification for the World Cup is definitely something that can be achieved as well.”
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) reportedly remains open to hiring a foreign tactician to lead the team, which has one of Africa’s richest talent pools but faces challenges in turning potential into sustained success.
As the debate over Eguavoen’s future continues, Hill’s candidacy adds an intriguing dynamic to the Super Eagles’ coaching saga.
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