Samson Siasia is scheduled to resume coaching upon the expiration of his suspension

After concluding a five-year FIFA ban, Samson Siasia, one of Nigeria’s most renowned football instructors, is now permitted to return to the sport.

The former Nigerian international, who turned 57 two days ago, was initially banned for life by FIFA in response to allegations of match-fixing.

Siasia contested the 2019 ban, arguing that he was innocent of the allegations that he had consented to operate in the Australian League under the terms of a renowned match-fixer, Wilson Permal.

Nevertheless, the coach, who was born in Bayelsa, was granted respite when the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) reduced the sentence to five years and reversed the $50,000 fine.

Siasia’s return to the football industry is commemorated today, August 16, 2024, as his Freedom Day.

Siasia is the most successful indigenous coach to date, with a CV that includes a silver and bronze medal in the Olympic Games men’s football tournaments in 2008 and 2016, as well as a silver medal in the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in 2005.

There is widespread speculation that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) may once again consider Siasia, who has previously held the position, in light of Finidi George’s resignation, which has left the Super Eagles role vacant.

Nevertheless, there may be other alternatives available. Several clubs in Nigeria’s local competitions, including the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) and the Nigeria National League (NNL), are reportedly interested in signing Siasia.

Mighty Jets, the former NPFL champion, is reportedly in discussions with Siasia about a potential involvement.

Prior to his suspension, Siasia possessed a U.S. Soccer Federation coaching license and a history of success.