Just days after the Ballon d’Or awards, the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS), unveiled its nominations for the Men’s National Team Coach of the Year Award.
Among the nominees is former Super Eagles coach, José Peseiro, who has expressed excitement and gratitude for the recognition.
Peseiro, who led the Nigerian national team to an impressive silver medal finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, made it to the IFFHS’s 20-man shortlist for his achievements.
Jose Peseiro, Nigeria’s head coach, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. Photo | NGSuper_Eagles
The nomination was surprising, as Peseiro was notably overlooked by the Confederation of African Football for their own awards.
Reflecting on his time with the Super Eagles, Peseiro shared his appreciation for the honor on his X account:
“Very proud and pleased to receive this nomination from IFFHS, a recognition that reflects the hard work and dedication that my coaching staff and I have invested over the years in serving the Nigerian national team.
Nigeria’s forward #9 Victor Osimhen (R) speaks with Nigeria’s coach Jose Peseiro (C) during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2024 final football match. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP) (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)
The records we break go down in history, as well as the unforgettable walk to the final of the AFCON.”
He continued by thanking the Nigerian Football Federation, the players, the coaching staff, and fans, acknowledging their unwavering support:
“Thanks to the Nigerian Football Federation, the players for the dedication they showed in every training session and competition, and also the entire staff and fans who supported us and believed in our work.”
Since his contract with Nigeria’s national team concluded after the AFCON, Peseiro has been without a coaching role. However, this latest recognition from IFFHS serves as a testament to his contributions to Nigerian football.
Other prominent names on the shortlist include AFCON-winning coach Emerse Faé of Ivory Coast, Hugo Broos of South Africa, and European leaders like Spain’s Luis de la Fuente and England’s Gareth Southgate.
Full List of IFFHS Men’s National Team Coach of the Year Nominees:
1. Luis de la Fuente [Spain]
2. Gareth Southgate [England]
3. Didier Deschamps [France]
4. Ronald Koeman [Netherlands]
5. Julian Nagelsmann [Germany]
6. Vincenzo Montella [Turkey]
7. Murat Yakin [Switzerland]
8. Willy Sagnol [Georgia]
9. Lionel Scaloni [Argentina]
10. Néstor Lorenzo [Colombia]
11. Marcelo Bielsa [Uruguay]
12. Fernando Batista [Venezuela]
13. Jesse Marsch [Canada]
14. Thomas Christiansen [Panama]
15. Emerse Faé [Ivory Coast]
16. José Peseiro [Nigeria]
17. Hugo Broos [South Africa]
18. Bartolomé “Tintín” Márquez [Qatar]
19. Hussein Ammouta [Jordan]
20. Darren Bazeley [New Zealand]
This nomination not only highlights Peseiro’s impact on the Super Eagles but also celebrates his legacy in international football.
