Steve McClaren is in contention for Nigeria’s national team coach

Former England manager Steve McClaren is on the shortlist to become Nigeria's national coach, replacing Finidi George. McClaren has held talks with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials, who aim to appoint a new coach before the Super Eagles resume their Africa Cup of Nations qualification in September. Despite his lack of experience in Africa, McClaren's extensive club and national team resume stands out. If appointed, he would lead a talented Nigerian squad.

Former England boss Steve McClaren is reportedly a candidate to become Nigeria’s national coach. McClaren, 63, currently part of Erik ten Hag’s staff at Manchester United, previously worked under Sir Alex Ferguson. Despite a difficult 16-month tenure as England manager, McClaren found success with FC Twente, winning the Dutch league title, and later managed Nottingham Forest, Derby, Newcastle, and QPR.

Reports indicate that McClaren is on a shortlist to replace Finidi George, who left his role as Nigeria’s coach last month. McClaren has held talks with Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials, who aim to appoint a new coach before the Super Eagles resume their Africa Cup of Nations qualification in September. McClaren’s rivals for the job include Frenchman Herve Renard, 55, a two-time AFCON winner with Zambia and Ivory Coast, and Belgian Tom Saintfiet, 51, currently managing the Philippines.

Despite McClaren’s lack of experience in Africa, his extensive club and national team resume stands out.McClaren is reportedly willing to accept a pay cut for the opportunity. If appointed, he would lead a talented Nigerian squad featuring Premier League stars like Alex Iwobi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Frank Onyeka, Wilfried Ndidi, and Calvin Bassey.