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

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 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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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