‘Resign now’ – Nigerian gaffer sends message to Super Eagles head coach Austin Eguavoen

Swiss-based Nigerian coach Adedeji Adeyemi Anthony has advised newly appointed Super Eagles head coach, Augustine Eguavoen, to resign from his role as the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Director in order to fully concentrate on his new task. Adeyemi, a former Stationery Stores FC player, shared this opinion during an interview on the sports program Sports Gallery.

While praising the NFF for making a swift decision in appointing Eguavoen, Adeyemi emphasized the importance of separating responsibilities to ensure success. “The Nigeria Football Federation has taken the right step by giving Austin Eguavoen the opportunity to lead the Super Eagles once again. However, for him to concentrate, he should resign as the Technical Director of the NFF,” Adeyemi remarked.

Adeyemi went on to commend the timing of the appointment, noting that Eguavoen’s familiarity with the players would be a significant advantage for the national team, especially with upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers on the horizon. “This appointment is a right step in the right direction, particularly at a time when the team is preparing for AFCON qualifier games. Eguavoen knows the players so well, and that alone is an advantage rather than bringing in a coach who would start from scratch,” he added.

Eguavoen, who has previously led the Super Eagles on multiple occasions, faces the challenge of steering Nigeria towards AFCON 2025 qualification. Adeyemi’s suggestion reflects the sentiment that dedicating full focus to the head coach role could help Eguavoen achieve this goal.