Peseiro ponders numerous next move possibilities

After taking Nigeria to the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, Super Eagles head coach Jose Peseiro is currently assessing his options for his next coaching role. The 63-year-old Portuguese manager’s contract with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), expired after guiding the national team to a second-place finish at the 2023 tournament.

In an interview this week, Peseiro revealed that he has received up to seven different offers from national teams and clubs. “I would say 5, 6 or 7”, he stated, keeping their identities confidential. The former Venezuela and Saudi Arabia manager said he told interested parties to come back at the end of February as he takes time to rest and carefully evaluate his plans.

With his successful spell raising Nigeria’s continental profile, Peseiro finds himself in demand. Sources indicate he has been linked with the vacant Algeria and Tunisia national team positions. “What is certain is that I want to continue coaching and I need to choose wisely”, Peseiro noted.

After taking some well-earned time off, Peseiro will weigh up his options before deciding on his next post. At 63 years old, he still harbours coaching ambitions at the highest level. With extensive experience managing countries and clubs over a career spanning decades, Peseiro’s know-how could prove valuable to several potential suitors.

His impressive guidance of Nigeria to the AFCON final before their penalty shoot-out loss has boosted Peseiro’s reputation across Africa and beyond. As the manager bides his time over the next few weeks before returning to the game, the Portuguese coach’s eventual destination will be closely watched by football fans eager to see where he heads next after leaving his mark with the Super Eagles.

He could remain Nigeria’s gaffer should the NFF decide on a fresh contract for him and if he accepts their terms. This will align with the interests of some players, like captain and AFCON 2023 Best Player, William Troost-Ekong, who advocated for Peseiro to continue as Super Eagles’ coach.