Why I rejected Super Eagles job – Herve Renard

Hervé Renard, a French strategist, has disclosed that he was very nearly appointed head coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Renard, who has had successful spells with both Zambia and the Ivory Coast, revealed that the Nigeria Football Federation contacted him after Finidi George's abrupt departure in May.

The Super Eagles were left in limbo after negotiations with German Bruno Labbadia broke down, despite his name being highly touted as a successor.

Renard revealed that the NFF's offer was the most generous one he had ever received, but he ultimately chose to turn it down after giving it careful thought.

"I nearly travelled to Nigeria. I considered it for a few days, even weeks, and ultimately decided not to. Although it didn't work out for me in the end, it was the best offer I've received thus far, Renard said to the French publication L'Équipe, as reported by Brila FM.

As for the team, interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has alluded to the circumstances that would allow him to take on the position full-time. He has been assigned with guiding the team through the forthcoming 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Libya.

Eguavoen stated that a long-term contract, perseverance, and constant support from the football organisation would be necessary before a permanent position would be considered.

"You don't take the Super Eagles job lightly." If I were to use it going forward, I would need to sit down, reflect, and think deeply because it’s not a small task.
It will be difficult. You don't win every day, therefore I'd need a long-term contract, tolerance, and provisions in the agreement. Building a squad takes time, Eguavoen said to Brila FM.

Having served as head coach for three prior terms, Eguavoen bemoaned the lack of time he was allowed to fully carry out his plan for the team.

"I was in charge for six months in 2006. It was only two months or two to three games every other time. Westerhof Clemens had five years. It took Gernot Rohr six years. They have time, but I've never had two years in a row," he said.

He restated that he would require long-term guarantees, contractual provisions, and a demonstration of confidence from the NFF.