Jose Peseiro nominated for Coach of the Year award

Former Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has been nominated for the Men’s National Team Coach of the Year Award by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS), following his impressive run with Nigeria at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Peseiro’s inclusion in the 20-man shortlist reflects his tactical brilliance at AFCON, where he guided the Super Eagles to a silver medal. His efforts helped the team overcome challenges, including a lack of defensive depth, as they came within touching distance of winning their first AFCON title since 2013.

Full List of Nominees for IFFHS Men’s National Team Coach of the Year:

1. Luis de la Fuente (Spain)
2. Gareth Southgate (England)
3. Didier Deschamps (France)
4. Ronald Koeman (Netherlands)
5. Julian Nagelsmann (Germany)
6. Vincenzo Montella (Turkey)
7. Murat Yakin (Switzerland)
8. Willy Sagnol (Georgia)
9. Lionel Scaloni (Argentina)
10. Néstor Lorenzo (Colombia)
11. Marcelo Bielsa (Uruguay)
12. Fernando Batista (Venezuela)
13. Jesse Marsch (Canada)
14. Thomas Christiansen (Panama)
15. Emerse Faé (Ivory Coast)
16. Jose Peseiro (Nigeria)
17. Hugo Broos (South Africa)
18. Bartolomé “Tintín” Márquez (Qatar)
19. Hussein Ammouta (Jordan)
20. Darren Bazeley (New Zealand)

Peseiro’s tenure with the Super Eagles saw him establish defensive solidity despite Nigeria’s traditionally attack-focused squad. His strategic approach carried the team through difficult matches and almost secured them the AFCON title.

However, after the tournament, Peseiro’s contract expired, and he decided not to renew his deal, citing personal reasons. Since his departure, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has been searching for a permanent replacement.

This nomination not only recognises Peseiro’s efforts with Nigeria but also highlights his growing reputation on the global coaching stage. The IFFHS released the list just days after the Ballon d’Or ceremony, further amplifying the significance of the awards.

Peseiro’s nomination comes as a tribute to his contributions, despite his brief stint with the Nigerian national team.