Jose Peseiro, the Portuguese manager, has confirmed his departure as coach of the Super Eagles after his contract expired on Thursday.
Peseiro, who led the Eagles to second place in the 2023 African Cup of Nations, said on Friday that coaching the West African nation has fulfilled him.
“We finished our contract with the NFF yesterday. It was an honour and privilege to coach the Super Eagles. It’s been 22 months of incredible dedication, sacrifice, emotion, and enthusiasm. We experience a sense of fulfilment.
“We would like to express our gratitude to Sir Amaju Pinnick (the president who signed us), President Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi, Secretary Dayo Enebi, the NFF, all the staff, and especially all the players, with whom leading has been a great pleasure.
“Guys, we are thankful; being part of this family has been a privilege. We will miss you, but we will always be there for you, no matter where you are. A big hug to all of you,” the former Porto manager wrote on X.
Peseiro’s exit ends a turbulent relationship with the three-time African champions.
Despite qualifying for Ivory Coast, the Portuguese’ future was questionable after drawing their first two 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.
The 63-year-old, on the other hand, signed a six-month deal that would expire at the end of AFCON, with the critical condition of reaching the showpiece semifinals. He surpassed his goal, losing 2-1 to host Ivory Coast in the final.
The Nigeria Football Federation claimed to be in the process of negotiating a new contract, though Peseiro admitted to having interest from seven different national teams. Algeria, one of the nations rumoured to be interested in the Portuguese, named Bosnian Vladimir Petkovic as its head coach on Thursday.
Since his hiring, Peseiro has overseen 22 games, winning 11, losing seven, and drawing four.
The NFF must now select a replacement before the next international free transfer window, which begins on March 18.
