New Super Eagles coach: NFF boss speaks on why Renard was given the nod and Saintfeit and Chelle were optioned

The search for a new head coach for the Nigerian Super Eagles could soon be concluded as the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is making significant progress in its quest.

In search of Finidi’s replacement

The post fell vacant following the resignation of Finidi George in June, prompted by the NFF’s decision to appoint a foreign technical adviser.

George’s tenure got off to a shaky start, including a critical defeat to Benin Republic that jeopardised Nigeria’s position in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Under his leadership, the Super Eagles managed a 1-1 draw against South Africa at home in Uyo and suffered a 2-1 defeat to the Republic of Benin in Abidjan.

These results put Nigeria’s qualification for the World Cup in serious doubt, extending their winless streak in qualifying.

The Super Eagles now sit fifth in Group C, ahead of only Zimbabwe and are on the brink of missing out on two consecutive FIFA World Cups.

The NFF has been actively searching for George’s successor and has been linked with several high-profile coaches including Harve Renard, Tom Saintefiet, Steve McLaren and Eric Chelle.

Now that McLaren will no longer be able to compete after taking over as Jamaica’s head coach, the NFF’s options have been reduced.

Hervé Renard, the number one candidate

Renard is reportedly the preferred candidate, bolstered by his recent departure from the French Football Federation.

An NFF executive, speaking anonymously to SportsBoom.com, confirmed contact with Renard but noted some challenges.

“Harve Renard’s achievements in Africa are well known and we have established contact with him. However, such deals are complex due to various factors, including financial considerations,” the source told SportsBoom.com.

“We are committed to finding the best coach that fits the team’s profile and financial constraints.”

Tom Saintefiet under consideration

Belgian coach Tom Saintefiet, who currently manages the Philippines national team, is also in the title race. Saintefiet, who previously coached Gambia, has expressed interest in managing the star-studded Nigerian national team.

The NFF executive acknowledged his potential, saying: “He is a good coach and the door is open for any qualified candidate.”

Renard’s stated salary demand of $180,000 per month (about N23 billion) may be a stumbling block, making candidates like Saintefiet and Eric Chelle more viable.

Both coaches have extensive experience in African football and are considered affordable options. They are open to short-term contracts covering the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with the possibility of extension.

The task at hand

The immediate task for the new Super Eagles coach will be to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, competing against Libya, Benin and Rwanda.

Nigeria reached the final of the last edition of the AFCON, losing 2-1 to hosts Ivory Coast.