Michael Nsien, a Nigerian-born American coach, believes he has the qualifications to become the head coach of the Nigerian Super Eagles.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is actively searching for a new head coach for the Super Eagles and has been considering applicants from various backgrounds.
Michael Nsien has submitted his application to replace Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro, who left the team on March 1 after his contract with the NFF ended.
Jose Peseiro guided the Super Eagles to a second-place finish at the 2023 AFCON, and many players reportedly wanted him to stay. However, negotiations for a contract extension fell through due to disagreements over salary.
As a result, the NFF had to look for a new coach, and Michael Nsien, who currently coaches the U.S. men’s Under-19 national team, believes he is the right person for the job.
Michael Nsien grew up in the United States and had a successful football career from 1999 to 2003, playing as a fullback for the University of Dayton. He scored nine goals in 73 games before retiring.
Unlike former players like Emmanuel Amuneke and George Finidi, who are also vying for the position, Michael Nsien did not enter the international scene until after his playing career.
He has had experience as an assistant coach and head coach at the US-based Tulsa Roughnecks since December 2018.