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Ikenna Ngere
Guest
Former Super Eagles coach, Jose Peseiro, has opened up about his decision to step down from managing Nigeria’s national football team.
Peseiro’s contract with the Nigerian Football Federation expired in February, leading to his departure after serving as head coach since May 2022.
During his tenure, the Portuguese coach led the Super Eagles to a second-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Côte d’Ivoire earlier this year.
However, in a recent interview with SABC Sport, Peseiro revealed that his decision to leave the role was due to the overwhelming pressure and stress associated with the job, regardless of the team’s performance in the tournament.
Peseiro explained that he had already decided to resign after AFCON, even if the team had won the competition.
“I decided that when I finish the AFCON, I will leave. I had put too much effort in my job, it was too much stress. Everyone supported me – my family and the players but I grew fatigue, I thought it was enough for me, even if I had won the AFCON,” Peseiro said.
Despite the challenges, Peseiro reflected fondly on his time with the Nigerian team, describing it as a “special” experience.
He praised the talent of the Super Eagles players, saying, “Nigeria was an amazing job, with good players. We played very well in the AFCON. I think our team was the best until we lost to Cote d’Ivoire in the tournament.”
Since leaving the Super Eagles, the 64-year-old coach has been waiting for the right opportunity to return to management.
Peseiro admitted to receiving offers from clubs in South Africa, Europe, and Brazil but hasn’t accepted any yet.
“I am waiting for a good job, for a good step. It is true there were offers from South Africa, Europe and in Brazil as well, but I didn’t take any and feel good for those jobs.
“Someone called to tell me about the Sundowns job and about other things but until now, nothing special,” he said.
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