You’re hired: Football League’s youngest coach reunites with ex-Super Eagles boss Finidi George

Yemi Olanrewaju, one of the league’s youngest and most promising coaches, has been appointed as the first assistant coach at Rivers United in a surprise NPFL transfer report.

The 32-year-old tactician will reunite with former Super Eagles head coach Finidi George, marking a new chapter in their shared journey that previously saw them conquer the NPFL with Enyimba in 2023.

The Finidi-Yema partnership is a proven formula. In 2022, Finidi handpicked Olanrewaju as his assistant at Enyimba, and together they led the Aba giants to a record-extending ninth NPFL title in 2023.

Their synergy was evident in Enyimba’s disciplined yet attacking style, which overwhelmed opponents during that championship campaign.

Olanrewaju’s contributions as assistant coach were pivotal, showing his ability to develop players and implement modern tactical approaches.

Now, at Rivers United, the duo is poised to recreate that magic, with fans buzzing about the potential for another trophy-laden campaign.

Olanrewaju, affectionately known as ‘Yema,’ brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for tactical acumen to the Port Harcourt-based club.

His appointment follows the departure of Evans Ogenyi, whose contract with Rivers United recently expired.

The club confirmed the move on Friday, signaling their ambition to build on a strong 2024/25 season, where they finished second in the NPFL and secured a CAF Champions League berth.

After Finidi’s departure from Enyimba in 2024 to take up the Super Eagles role, Olanrewaju stepped up as interim head coach before being confirmed as permanent manager in August 2024.

Under his leadership, Enyimba secured a CAF Confederation Cup spot and maintained an unbeaten start to the 2024/25 NPFL season, though a nine-match winless streak led to his exit in December 2024, with Super Eagles legend Nwankwo Kanu making the call to part ways.

Despite the setback, Olanrewaju’s stock remained high, thanks to his dedication to professional growth, including earning his UEFA B coaching license in Scotland.

Now, at Rivers United, Olanrewaju joins a club with lofty ambitions. Finidi, who took over the Pride of Rivers at the start of the 2024/25 season after a brief and challenging stint with the Super Eagles, has already instilled a winning mentality.

Rivers United’s preparations for the 2025/26 NPFL season, set to kick off on August 22, and their CAF Champions League campaign are in full swing, with Olanrewaju expected to play a key role in player assessments and tactical.

For Olanrewaju, this move is a chance to continue his rise in Nigerian football. With Finidi’s experience and Yema’s innovative approach, Rivers United are poised to challenge for silverware in the 2025/26 season.