Jose Peseiro Departs as Super Eagles Head Coach

Portuguese manager José Santos Peseiro has officially announced his departure as the head coach of the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, following the expiration of his contract on Thursday.

Peseiro, who steered the Eagles to a commendable second-place finish at the 2023 African Cup of Nations, confirmed his exit on Friday, expressing pride and honor in coaching the West African nation.

In a statement, Peseiro remarked, “Yesterday, we concluded our contract with the NFF. It was a pride and honor to coach the Super Eagles. It has been 22 months of immense dedication, sacrifice, emotion, and enormous enthusiasm. We feel a sense of fulfillment.”

He extended his gratitude to key figures within the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), including Sir Amaju Pinnick, President Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, Secretary Dayo Enebi, and all the staff. Peseiro particularly highlighted the players, emphasizing the pleasure he derived from leading them.

Peseiro’s tenure saw notable achievements and contributions to Nigerian football, including a commendable performance at the African Cup of Nations. However, uncertainties arose about his future following a mixed start to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Despite meeting the semi-final target at AFCON, talks of a new contract were overshadowed by reported interests from other national teams, leading to Peseiro’s departure. Algeria, one of the teams rumored to be interested, recently appointed a new head coach.

During his tenure, Peseiro managed 22 games, with 11 victories, seven losses, and four draws.

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) now faces the task of naming a replacement before the upcoming international window on March 18.