Egyptian National Team Head Coach Hassan Shehata Drops Nigeria Interest

Despite Shehata’s interest in the short-term job that could have lasted until the end of the World Cup, the EFA were not interested in the deal.

"My contract with the Egypt national team continues until the end of 2012," Shehata told the media in UAE, where he was honored by Al-Ain club.

"I received many offers but the Egypt Football Association closed the door on them and announced that I will continue until the end of my contract."

Shehata is the second coach on Nigeria’s wish list to withdraw from the coaching race after Bayern Munich trainer Louis van Gaal also opted out.

Other coaches who had been shortlisted earlier include Russia coach Guus Hiddink, former Ghana manager Ratomir Dujkovic and Qatar boss Bruno Metsu.

Yesterday, the Nigerian FA announced that Republic of Ireland coach Giovanni Trapattoni has been included on a shortlist of coaches.

Trapattoni is one of the most successful Serie A coaches, having won seven league crowns with Juventus and Inter. He has also won league championships in Germany, Portugal and Austria.

After opting out of the Nigerian challenge, Shehata will now prepare his continental conquerors to battle England in an international friendly in March.