Former Zambia and Ivory Coast coach Hervé Renard has opened up about how he came close to accepting the role of head coach for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, but ultimately decided against it.
The French tactician was heavily linked with the job after former Super Eagles assistant coach Finidi George stepped down.
At the time, Renard had just left his post as the head coach of the French Women’s national team and was being touted as one of the prime candidates to lead Nigeria.
Swedish coach Janne Andersson was also in the mix for the job, but Renard’s extensive experience coaching in Africa, where he famously led both Zambia and Ivory Coast to African Cup of Nations titles, made him an appealing choice.
A source from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed to afrik-foot.com that Renard had been approached and offered the position.
Herve Renard gives reasons why he rejected NFF's offer
His strong reputation and proven success on the continent further heightened his chances of landing the role.
However, it was ultimately German coach Bruno Labbadia who was announced as Nigeria’s new head coach, though he would later decline the role, leading to NFF Technical Director Austin Eguavoen stepping in temporarily.
In a recent interview with French outfit L'Equipe, Renard confirmed that he had indeed received an offer from the NFF, but ultimately chose to decline. “I almost went to Nigeria,” Renard said.
“I weighed the pros and cons for several days, even weeks, before deciding against it.
“It was the best proposal I’ve received so far, but the others didn’t suit me.”he added.
Austin Eguavoen will be in the saddle again when the Super Eagles face Libya in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers as he continues in the role in a temporary capacity.