Former Super Eagles captain and Chelsea legend, John Mikel Obi has revealed that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is in contact with Uruguayan manager Gustavo Poyet regarding the vacant head coach position for the national team.

Speaking on his Podcast, Mikel disclosed that he recently had a conversation with Poyet, who reached out to him for advice on the possibility of managing the Super Eagles.

“I spoke with him, he was like, ‘listen, what’s it like managing the Nigeria national team?” I gave him my honest opinion,” Mikel shared.

“Managing Nigeria’s national team is tough. You need to be very patient because things are not going to go as fast as you want it to. You need to be patient but things get done.”

However Mikel emphasized that despite the challenges, the Super Eagles remain a talented team.

“Most importantly, you know you’re getting a very good team. It doesn’t matter what happens in the hierarchy, the politics of the game.

“Whatever happens, concentrate on the team. You’ll get a good and young team. A team that’s ready to succeed.”

NFF’s Next Move After Labbadia Deal Collapses

According to reports, the NFF has shifted its focus to Poyet, the former Chelsea midfielder and former Brighton manager, following the breakdown of negotiations with German tactician Bruno Labbadia.

Poyet, who last managed the Greece national team, is said to be considering the opportunity to take over the Super Eagles.

A Team Brimming with Talent

The Super Eagles boast a roster packed with stars playing across Europe’s top leagues, such as Alex Iwobi, Victor Osimhen, Calvin Bassey, Ademola Lookman, and many others.

Despite the talent on hand, Nigeria’s recent performances have been mixed. While they came close to winning the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON title under former coach José Peseiro, a disastrous World Cup qualifying campaign followed, leaving them In a desperate position to qualify for the World Cup.

The incoming coach will face immediate pressure to qualify the team for AFCON 2025 qualification and improve chances of qualifying for the World Cup qualifiers.

Currently, the Super Eagles sit 5th in their group, with only the top team securing automatic qualification.

One thing is clear, whoever takes on the role will need to get results fast, while harnessing the undeniable quality of a squad bursting with potential.