Former Sweden national team coach, Janne Andersson, recently opened up about his decision to decline the opportunity to coach Nigeria’s Super Eagles, despite multiple efforts by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to secure his services. As reported by Soccernet.ng, the 62-year-old coach, who has been without a job since stepping down from Sweden’s men’s team nearly a year ago, was in serious negotiations with both Nigeria and Latvia before ultimately rejecting both offers.
Following the resignation of Finidi George, who briefly served as the head coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria sought out Andersson as a potential replacement. However, discussions between the two parties didn’t result in an agreement, and Andersson has now shared further details on why he made that decision.
Speaking to the Swedish newspaper Hallandsposten, via Fotbollskanalen, Andersson revealed that several teams had reached out to him in recent months, showing interest in hiring him.
“I’ve had multiple inquiries throughout the year. Some I immediately said no to, while others I considered, but they didn’t progress into anything serious,” he explained.
He went on to confirm that the two most concrete offers came from Latvia and Nigeria, both of which he declined.
“Nigeria was very persistent and eager for me to take on the head coach role for the national team. There were many aspects that were appealing, but the overall situation didn’t feel right. I need to be fully confident before making such a commitment,” Andersson explained, pointing out that his decision was based on a combination of factors, not just the appeal of the position itself.
Despite turning down the Super Eagles job, Andersson hasn’t ruled out a return to coaching in the future but is being selective about his next steps.
“It would take something special for me to take on another coaching role. I’m very particular, and I also have some non-coaching opportunities, such as mentorships and board positions,” he hinted.
With Andersson’s refusal, Nigeria remains in search of a new head coach. For now, former international Augustine Eguavoen has stepped in as a caretaker manager, earning a win over Benin Republic and a draw against Rwanda in his brief stint. Eguavoen is set to lead the team again in their upcoming doubleheader against Libya.
