He will cook - Nigerians react as NPFL winner Finidi George replaces Peseiro as Super Eagles coach

The new Super Eagles manager, Finidi George, has officially started his reign.

He will cook - Nigerians react as NPFL winner Finidi George replaces Peseiro as Super Eagles coach

Izuchukwu Akawor 17:11 - 29.04.2024

Enyimba manager Finidi George has replaced Jose Peseiro as Nigeria's Super Eagles new coach.

Nigerian football fans have taken to social media to express a range of opinions on the appointment of Finidi George as the new head coach of the Super Eagles

The former Nigerian international was announced as the permanent replacement for Jose Peseiro by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) this week.

Nigerians React to Finidi George

While some fans welcomed the hiring of the legendary winger, many others voiced skepticism about George's coaching credentials and ability to lead the national team.

One optimistic Twitter user simply stated: "He will cook," suggesting George would be a success in the role. 

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)

However, others were more critical, with one fan writing: "Amuneke is far better than him. The friendly match against Mali has exposed his weakness."

There was also criticism of the NFF's hiring process, with one concerned Nigerian commenting: "Dem go just dey hire & fire coaches anyhow without looking at their profile, dey bring shame to d country football (I nor get anything against Finidi oo but make we get a sense on hiring coaches)."

Another fan questioned George's qualifications, stating: "Congratulations to him though, the way our FA appoints coaches dey always amaze me, no concrete interview, no profile, the fact that he's a Nigerian did not say you shouldn't check well now, who are team he's working with? Naija my country, what about his license? What grade is he?"

The mixed social media reaction highlights the polarized viewpoints among Nigerian fans on the Enyimba boss taking over the high-pressure Super Eagles role. 

While George's legendary playing career is revered, many have doubts about his coaching pedigree despite leading Enyimba to a historic ninth title.

As he prepares for his first official matches in charge, George will have to win over the skeptics and prove he has the tactical acumen to guide Nigeria's talented squad to new heights on the international stage.

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