FINIDI EMERGES SUPER EAGLES HEAD COACH ...... Targets 2026 FIFA World Cup

Finidi George
Head Coach, Super Eagles

"I have always had a cordial relationship with all the players as an Assistant Coach. I am still the same person even as Head Coach now, only that the title has changed. There will be no controversy regarding relationships with the players. These are professional players and we have to give them what they are used to in Europe." Finidi George.

Former Nigerian Super Eagles player and Captain, Finidi George who plied the round leather game at several international clubs, has been appointed Head Coach of the national team.

Finidi, who was unveiled on Monday 13th May at the Media Centre of Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja by the Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh alongside the President of the Nigerian Football Federation, NFF, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, assured of his readiness to lead the Super Eagles into qualification for the 2026 FIFA World and Africa Cup of Nations.

According the sleek footed winger, "my target and biggest challenge are qualifying for these two competitions."

The appointment of Finidi George has received applause from stakeholders and sports lovers across the football community in Nigeria and beyond despite the plethora of foreign coaches who had incated their willingness to manage the Nigerian side.

Feilding questions shortly after his unveiling, Finidi George disclosed that only players who feature regularly at their clubs either in Nigeria or anywhere around the globe where they ply their trade will secure his invitation for international assignments.

He however, promised that the Super Eagles will remain even more competitive in the years ahead.

“My first target is to make sure that we are in line to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by winning the upcoming two matches against South Africa and Benin Republic.

"The 2025 AFCON qualifiers will soon start and we must also be prepared for those as well.

"I know what the NFF wants as it is boldly written in the contract, and I will work very hard to add value to the team and put myself in the position to earn even more than I will be earning from the take-off,” George stated.

"I have always had a cordial relationship with all the players as an Assistant Coach. I am still the same person even as Head Coach now, only that the title has changed. There will be no controversy regarding relationships with the players. These are professional players and we have to give them what they are used to in Europe; you don’t need to slap anyone to get him to do the right thing.

“I will try my best to ensure the team starts functioning properly and we start winning games again. There is no pressure on me; I have tough skin. I just want to call for your support. I know this is not an easy job, but with the support of everyone, we can achieve our objectives.”

Responding to enquire if he would overhauling the second placed team at the AFCON held in Cote d’Ivoire, Finidi George said that would not be a priority.

He however, said that there would be the need to scout around the local league for determined and talented players to be injected into the team.