Gernot Rohr is Nigeria’s longest-serving coach, having been in the position since 2016. But the German tactician’s time as the Super Eagles coach is about to come to an end.
On Thursday, there were rumours that the 68-year-old German had been sacked as the Super Eagles coach two days after the team reached the CAF 2022 World Cup qualifier playoff round.
Although the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) denied the rumours in a statement, the organisation confirmed that they are reviewing Rohr’s position.
But, while it is unlikely the German leaves now, Soccernet takes a look at some of the potential candidates that could replace him if the NFF decide to sack him.
Salisu Yusuf
Salisu is back as the team’s assistant coach of the team after he was reappointed following his ban for receiving bribes to influence his team selection.
He is someone Rohr and NFF president Amaju Pinnick rate highly, which makes him the number one favourite. And with the Africa Cup of Nations just over a month away, it is only logical they appoint someone familiar with the team.
Austin Eguavoen
The former Super Eagles star is another potential candidate that could replace Rohr. He has been in this position before and he is also a member of NFF’s technical committee.
And according to reports, Eguavoen could be appointed alongside Salisu to take charge of the team at next year’s AFCON in Cameroon.
Emmanuel Amunike
This is another name in contention to potentially replace Rohr. In fairness, he is the best option available as he has a proven track record.
Amunike is another former Super Eagles star and has done well for himself following his transition into management.
The former Barcelona star led the Golden Eaglets to the U17 World Cup title in 2015. One important thing to note from that win is that Super Eagles current number leading man Victor Osimhen got his breakthrough in the tournament under the watchful eyes of Amunike.
Amunike also has the experience of leading a team to the Africa Cup of Nations, having led Tanzania to the 2019 edition.
Sunday Oliseh
Highly unlikely, but never say never. Sunday Oliseh is another ex-Nigerian international that has previously managed the Super Eagles.
In fact, he was Rohr’s predecessor, but he was sacked after clashing with NFF officials and some of the key players in the squad.
Oliseh’s tactical brain is probably the best of the lot, but his man-management skills and his relationship with the NFF could deny him a second chance.
Other candidates
The likes of Herve Renard and Pitso Mosimane will also find the job attractive, but huge wages mean they are likely not to be considered.
The NFF still owe Rohr a backlog of salaries and will want to appoint someone whose wages will not be a problem should they decide to part ways with the German.
