5 Things to Know About New Nigeria Super Eagles Coach Finidi George

Finidi George Super Eagles boss has left his position as Enyimba coach (Photo Credit: Enyimba)

5 Things to Know About New Nigeria Super Eagles Coach Finidi George

Izuchukwu Akawor 18:34 - 29.04.2024

The NFF has announced Finidi George as the man to replace Jose Peseiro as the new Super Eagles coach.

Enyimba’s Finidi George has been named as the next Super Eagles coach on a permanent basis following confirmation by the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF.

With Finidi’s appointment done and dusted, get to know the Eagles better with these five important things.

Finidi George as Super Eagles boss

  • Nigerian Legend

Finidi George is a true Nigerian football legend. The former winger had a glittering playing career representing the Super Eagles.

For over a decade from 1991 to 2002, earning 62 caps and scoring six goals. He was a key member of the dream team that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and Olympic gold at Atlanta '96.

Nigeria vs Ghana
Super Eagles new coach Finidi George was in charge of the team during the March break. | Imago Finidi George made some tactical alterations in Nigeria's win over Ghana (Imago)
  • Accomplished at Club and Country

Not only did George star for Nigeria, but he also enjoyed tremendous success at club level representing Dutch side Ajax Amsterdam and Real Betis. 

He is an Ajax legend, spending six years with the Dutch giants from 1993-1999 and winning numerous titles including the Champions League in 1995. 

Finidi George celebrates winning the Eredivisie with Loius van Gaal and Edgar Davids
Finidi George celebrates winning the Eredivisie with Loius van Gaal and Edgar Davids | 90s Football onX

The new Super Eagles boss, George, who has been with the team as an assistant to Jose Peseiro and then in an interim capacity, also made it to the Copa Del Rey final with Real Betis in 1996.

  • Nigerian League Champion

While his greatest playing days came in Europe, George has recent coaching experience in the Nigerian league as well. 

He led Enyimba to the Nigerian Premier Football League title in the 2022/2023 season, underlining his credentials to take over the Super Eagles top job.

Enyimba celebrate winning the 2022/2023 Nigerian Premier League season
Enyimba celebrate winning the 2022/2023 Nigerian Premier League season| Imago images

Finidi is also on course to defend the NPFL title as Enyimba sit just two points behind leaders Rangers Int’l with six matches to play.

  • Fully UEFA Qualified

There should be no doubts about George's coaching qualifications. He holds the UEFA Pro License, the highest certification a coach can obtain, after taking the requisite courses. 

This Finidi George special celebration remains why Real Betis fans will never forget him.

Having learned from the famous Ajax academy and Dutch "Total Football" philosophy as a player, Finidi will likely aim to instil an attacking, possession-based style with the Super Eagles.

His Ajax roots give him an outstanding coaching pedigree and this should excite Super Eagles fans.

The first Super Eagles team under Finidi George before the game against Ghana. (Photo Credit: theNFF/Facebook)
  • Calmness

One of the traits that could serve George well is his calm demeanor. As a player, he was known for his composure on the ball and level-headed approach.

That same calmness under pressure will be vital in managing the ginormous expectations that come with the Super Eagles coaching job.

Finidi George also won AFCON with Super Eagles.
Finidi George also won AFCON with Super Eagles.

The NFF must now back George and provide him with a conducive environment to implement his philosophy and ideas with the national team.

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