Finidi George has resigned as head coach of the Nigerian Super Eagles following recent poor results in World Cup qualifiers. Appointed last month, Finidi's brief tenure faced scrutiny, leading to his decision amid the team's struggles. The NFF now seeks a new coach to guide the team forward.
In a dramatic turn of events, Finidi George has stepped down from his role as the head coach of Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles. Finidi’s resignation follows a brief and challenging tenure marked by mixed results and heightened scrutiny.
Finidi’s journey with the Super Eagles began as an assistant coach under then-head coach Jose Peseiro. After Peseiro’s contract was not renewed following the AFCON tournament, Finidi was appointed as interim head coach. He guided the team to a 2-1 victory over Ghana but then suffered a 2-0 defeat against Mali.
In a bid to stabilize the team, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) appointed Finidi as the head coach last month, tasking him with the crucial responsibility of qualifying Nigeria for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, the Super Eagles' campaign stumbled, with a 1-1 draw against South Africa in Uyo and a loss to Gernot Rohr’s Benin Republic in Ivory Coast, leaving Nigeria fifth in their qualification group with just three points from four games.
Amid growing pressure and the recent appointment of a foreign technical adviser, Finidi George decided to relinquish his role. His resignation has sparked varied reactions across the football community and social media. NFF President Amaju Pinnick expressed regret, acknowledging Finidi's contributions to Nigerian football. “Finidi George has been an integral part of our football history. His passion and dedication to the game are unquestionable, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” Pinnick stated.
On social media, opinions were divided. Some fans supported his decision, citing the high-pressure environment and the need for a new direction, while others criticized the hasty nature of his resignation after only two matches.
The NFF is now focused on finding a successor who can bring stability and renewed energy to the Super Eagles. The search for a new head coach is underway, with several prominent names in Nigerian and international football being considered.
