Following a series of disappointing results and the resignation of head coach Finidi George, the Nigerian Football Federation, NFF is searching for a new leader. George has since made an appointment with Nigeria Premier League Football, NPFL, and Rivers United.
A few weeks back, L’Equipe (a French sports newspaper) reported that NFF is interested in making Herve Renard, the new head coach of the Super Eagles. Although Renard is still the manager of the France Women’s team, his time in the role is coming to an end, as he is expected to leave his role after the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Renard also confirmed he has informed the France Football Federation, FFF, about his intentions.
“It’s a difficult job. If I had to be brief, I have in the back of my mind the 2026 World Cup in men’s football.
“I hope that it will be my third World Cup as the head of a men’s team. These are my motivations,” he said.
Renard, will not be short of suitors. His impressive track record in African football, including leading Zambia and Ivory Coast to Africa Cup of Nations victories, has made him a popular candidate among Nigerian fans.
In addition to his African successes, Renard, coached Saudi Arabia to a historic victory over Argentina in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. His experience and success in Africa make him a fitting candidate to lead the Super Eagles.
Not only that Nigeria want him as their manager, but also for Poland, South Korea, Cameroon and Morocco, if Walid Regragui, leaves his post.
According to FootMercato journalist, Santi Aouna, Renard, has been offered a €2 million annual salary by Nigeria.
One of the perennial issues faced by the NFF is the financial constraint in hiring top-tier coaches.
However, Renard, has managed successfully, countries national teams that have less financial muscle compared to Nigeria.
If Zambia and Ivory Coast could afford Renard, then Nigeria can too.
Renard’s coaching resume includes leading Morocco to the 2018 World Cup, their first appearance in 20 years.
His experience in navigating the complexities of World Cup qualification and tournament play would be invaluable for Nigeria.
With the Super Eagles looking unlikely to qualify for the Mundial after four rounds of matches, Renard, could be the best man to arrest the situation.
His strategic acumen and familiarity with the global stage could be crucial in ensuring Nigeria not only qualifies but also performs admirably.
He is renowned for his tactical flexibility and ability to adapt his strategies to maximize his team’s strength.
His approach is both pragmatic and innovative, tailoring his tactics to the specific challenges posed by each opponent.
This adaptability would be particularly beneficial to the Super Eagles, who have struggled with consistency and cohesion in recent years and his ability to instil discipline and implement effective game plans could bring the much-needed stability and direction to the team.
His standout qualities are his ability to build strong relationships with his players.
His time with Zambia and Ivory Coast was marked by mutual respect and trust which are crucial elements in any successful team.
Renard’s leadership style fosters a positive and motivated environment, encouraging players to give their best.
This could help unify a Nigerian squad that has shown flashes of brilliance but often lacks harmony and focus.
His affinity for African football is well-documented. He has often spoken about his passion for the continent and its footballing culture.
This cultural sensitivity, combined with his professional expertise, make him a perfect fit for the Eagles job as well as his enthusiasm for African football goes beyond professional duty; it is a genuine passion, which resonates with players and fans alike.
Although NFF Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, told newsmen last Monday that he was not aware of any such development, fans are keen on his appointment.
Sports journalist Bukolami Olajide, wrote on Facebook, “The Nigeria Football Federation is said to be interested in the French national women’s team coach Herve Renard, to fill the Super Eagles head coach position. If this is true, then it will be amazing to have him on board.”
Felix Nwosu, added in the comment section, “Best decision ever in the history of football in Nigeria.”
Chuks Obani, was sceptical about how the Federation would handle the appointment.
“NFF knows every Nigerian wants this man. They will go for him and use technicalities to prevent him from succeeding. It’s their game plan. We have been clamouring for this man before the interim days of Salisu Yusuf, Austin Eguavoen, Gernot Rohr, Jose Peseiro, and Finidi George,” Obani wrote.
Akinlolu Alonge wrote, “I’ve always wished this guy got an opportunity to manage the Super Eagles. If this happens, I’d be happy.”
There were comments on X as well, with more fans calling for the Frenchman’s appointment.
Faruk Adewale stated, “To be frank, It’s a foreign coach who can handle our national team.”
Alexis Chigoziri has always wanted the 55-year-old for the team, saying, “He has always been my choice. I’ve tweeted about this several times.”
Meanwhile, The Punch reported that the NFF president said that he is not aware that the federation is considering the Frenchman for the Super Eagles job.
“I am not aware of that for now,” the NFF President was quoted as saying.
In the report that Renard is asking for ¦ 253 million per month salary for the Super Eagles job, Ibrahim Gusau said: “Did you see it from any NFF communication channel? It is from some of those that are always trying to create confusion,” the NFF President said.
However, the NFF will face competition for Renard’s services and financial challenges, as he earned €1.1 million monthly in Saudi Arabia and between €150,000 and €200,000 per month in Morocco. The last foreign coach of the Eagles, Jose Peseiro, earned $50,000 per month after an initial salary of $70,000.
–Benprince Ezeh
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