Ex-Sweden manager Andersson sets to become Super Eagles coach

Former Sweden manager Janne Andersson is reportedly the frontrunner for the vacant Super Eagles coaching position. While the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has yet to make an official announcement, sources from Score Nigeria indicate that the 61-year-old is likely to assume the role of head coach for Nigeria’s national team.

Andersson, who ended his tenure with Sweden in November 2023 after a seven-year run, previously declined an offer from Latvia.

If appointed, Andersson would become the second Swedish coach to lead the Super Eagles, following Lars Lagerbäck, who managed Nigeria during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. Another Swede, Thomas Dennerby, also contributed to Nigerian football by coaching the Super Falcons at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Andersson boasts a strong managerial record, having guided IFK Norrköping to their first Allsvenskan title in 2016, which earned him the Swedish national team job. His time with Sweden included significant achievements, such as leading the team to the 2018 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals after finishing atop Group F, ahead of South Korea, Mexico, and defending champions Germany. Sweden was eventually eliminated by England.

Despite recent setbacks, including missing out on the 2022 World Cup and failing to qualify for Euro 2024, Andersson’s experience and credentials make him a strong candidate to take charge of the Super Eagles.

Nigeria’s national team is set to face Benin Republic and Rwanda in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, and Andersson’s potential appointment could introduce a fresh tactical perspective to the squad.