Even if we won AFCON — Ex-Super Eagles boss Jose Peseiro gives reason for quitting Nigerian national team

Jose Peseiro, with his captains, William Troost-Ekong (left) and Ahmed Musa (right). (Photo Credit: Oganla Media/X)

Even if we won AFCON — Ex-Super Eagles boss Jose Peseiro gives reason for quitting Nigerian national team

Faruq Ibrahim 22:31 - 15.09.2024

Former Super Eagles head coach Jose Peseiro provided a reason for failing to renew his Super Eagles contract.

Former Super Eagles boss Jose Peseiro has provided some insights into his decision to quit the job despite the best efforts of the federation to keep him on as head coach. 

Peseiro refuses renewal 

Although his start to life as Super Eagles head coach was unglamorous, the Portuguese got fans and administrators on his side after he surpassed expectations and led the Nigerian national team to a silver medal at AFCON 2023. 

However, he chose to leave when his contract expired in March, after coaching the team through two disappointing World Cup qualifier fixtures. 

The federation and Nigeria's minister for sports development, John Enoh, reportedly made major efforts to convince him to continue; however, the former Porto boss opted to leave. 

Jose Peseiro | IMAGO
Jose Peseiro | IMAGO

Peseiro gives reason for leaving 

In an interview with South African broadcaster SABC, the 62-year-old explained his reason for leaving. He told the interviewer that the job was stressful, and he had decided to leave even if a gold medal was achieved in Ivory Coast. 

“There was too much stress,” Peseiro said. “I had the support of my staff and the best from my players, but it wasn’t enough. 

“I wanted to win the AFCON for the fans, the government, for everyone, but even before the tournament, I had already decided to leave. Even if I had won the trophy, I would have still left.”

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