By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
John Mikel Obi has revealed former Sunderland manager, Gustavo Poyet reached out to him about managing the Super Eagles.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is yet to appoint a substantive head coach for the Super Eagles since former international Finidi George left the post in June.
NFF’s technical director, Augustine Eguavoen took charge of the team in interim capacity in the recent 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
Mikel, a former Super Eagles captain disclosed that Poyet seek his advice on the team’s managerial job.
“He asked me, ‘What’s it like managing the Nigeria national team?’ I gave him my honest opinion,” Mikel said. “Managing Nigeria’s national team is tough.
“You need to be very patient because things won’t move as quickly as you might hope. Patience is crucial, but progress does happen,” Mikel said on Obionepodcast.
“Most importantly, you’re getting a very good team. Regardless of the hierarchy or politics, focus on the team. You’ll find a young and talented squad that’s ready to succeed.”
Eguavoen is expected to continue his role pending the appointment of a substantive head coach.
The Super Eagles will next be in action against the Mediterranean Knights of Libya next month.
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