According to a report by GOAL, following Van Nistelrooy’s addition to Ten Hag’s coaching staff at Manchester United, McClaren could be set to depart the club to take charge of the Nigerian national team.
McClaren has spent the last two years working under Ten Hag at United. Notably, he previously served as an assistant coach under Sir Alex Ferguson. However, with Nigeria in need of a new manager, McClaren has emerged as one of three candidates for the position. Last month, Finidi George vacated the managerial role for the Nigerian national team.
The Nigerian Football Federation aims to appoint a new manager before their September African Cup of Nations qualifiers. Alongside McClaren, Frenchman Hervé Renard and Belgian Tom Saintfiet are also on the shortlist.
Manchester United’s coaching team underwent adjustments prior to the season, with former player Van Nistelrooy and Rene Meulensteen joining Ten Hag’s support staff. This may have contributed to McClaren’s decision to potentially leave. Should he ultimately become Nigeria’s manager, it would mark McClaren’s return to leading a national team since his stint as England’s manager from 2006-07.
Nigeria is scheduled to begin their African Cup of Nations qualifiers on September 2nd against Benin. Meanwhile, Manchester United will face Fulham in their first match of the new season on August 16th. The outcome regarding McClaren’s departure will soon be revealed.
