“How can I resign from a temporary position?” – Eguavoen clarifies Super Eagles job

By Monsurah Olatunji

Augustine Eguavoen, Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Director, has shared his side of the story regarding his brief stint as the interim manager of the Super Eagles, clarifying the circumstances behind his appointment and his subsequent departure.

The 59-year-old Nigerian football legend, who has previously managed the national team on multiple occasions, was thrust into the role again following the resignation of Finidi George.

Despite initially declining the offer, Eguavoen agreed to take charge of the Super Eagles on an interim basis as the team prepared for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Speaking on a Bet9ja podcast, Eguavoen opened up about the series of events that led to him stepping in temporarily for the team.

“It’s almost time for the game in September, and we still didn’t have a coach for whatever reason,” he recalled. “I don’t know, maybe finance, I can’t say honestly speaking. And then the game was getting closer and closer, and I was approached by our Oga (leader).”

Initially, Eguavoen was hesitant and declined the offer, stating he would not take on the role. However, due to his position as NFF Technical Director, he was eventually persuaded to step in temporarily.

“I had an appointment in Europe, my second home in Belgium,” he explained. “I traveled, and then I was told we have a chance now. Bruno Labadia is coming on board, so I was relieved. But the negotiations didn’t go well, and I was called again because Bruno declined for whatever reason.”

With just 10 days to two weeks left before a crucial match, Eguavoen had no choice but to accept the interim role, with NFF President, Gusau, urging him to take charge.

“I came in, did the first game, and after that, I gathered the boys, thanked them for coming, and told them this is where we are now. Hopefully, going forward, we’ll get a new coach soon,” Eguavoen said, reflecting on his brief tenure.

Despite speculation regarding his resignation, the former Super Eagles defender made it clear: “I cannot resign from the position I was only occupying temporarily anyway, so it passed.”

Eguavoen’s involvement ended after overseeing two games, with the NFF later appointing Eric Chelle as the permanent coach of the Super Eagles.