Finidi George appointed as new head coach of Nigeria
Former Nigerian international Finidi George has been appointed as the new head coach of the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles. The 53-year-old takes over from Jose Peseiro, who departed after Nigeria’s defeat in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final.
George, who had a successful playing career with clubs like Ajax and Real Betis, has been serving as an assistant to Peseiro for the past 20 months. He also led Enyimba to the Nigerian title last year. His appointment was confirmed by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) after a recommendation from its technical and development committee.
As a player, George represented Nigeria at two World Cups and helped the Super Eagles win the Africa Cup of Nations in 1994. He scored six goals in 62 international appearances and was part of the ‘Golden Generation’ of Nigerian football.
George’s immediate task will be to prepare the team for crucial World Cup qualifiers in June against South Africa and Benin. The NFF has labeled these matches as “must-win encounters” as Nigeria looks to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Known for his attacking style of play as a player, George is expected to bring a new approach to the Super Eagles, utilizing the talented squad at his disposal and nurturing players from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
The decision to appoint George over other candidates like Emmanuel Amuneke has sparked debate among fans, but the former winger’s track record as a player and coach makes him a strong choice to lead Nigeria into a new era of success on the pitch.