French football manager, Hervé Renard, has confirmed that he was approached by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to take over the Super Eagles coaching job. Despite the strong appeal of the role, Renard ultimately declined after careful consideration.
The former Zambia and Côte d’Ivoire Africa Cup of Nations-winning coach was leading the French women’s U-23 team, preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics, when the NFF initiated talks with him about the Super Eagles vacancy.
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The Eagles have been without a permanent head coach since June, following the resignation of former international George Finidi, who managed only two World Cup qualifying games before stepping down.
Renard, known for his vast coaching experience across Africa, confirmed that discussions with the NFF did take place and an offer was indeed made. However, after evaluating the situation thoroughly, he decided to pass on the opportunity.
Renard has been without a coaching job since stepping down from the French women’s U-23 team, after their disappointing quarterfinal exit at the Paris Olympics. In a recent interview with L’Équipe, the 56-year-old discussed his desire to return to coaching, but whether Nigeria and the Super Eagles remain on his radar is yet to be seen.
“I almost went to Nigeria, I weighed the pros and cons for a few days, even a few weeks before refusing. It’s the best offer I’ve had so far, the rest didn’t suit me,” the double AFCON winner with Zambia and Côte d’Ivoire told L’Equipe.
He also added that coaching a national team that is playing a World Cup qualifier is a much more appealing task for him than managing a club side. “A national team is a priority. And I hope that it will still be able to play for qualification for the World Cup.”
Since his decision, Nigeria has announced the appointment of German Bruno Labbadia but the ex-German player quit the job before handling a single game. At the same time, the NFF has appointed former head coach Austin Equavoen to manage the team on an interim basis until November.