Finidi George has been appointed as the new head coach of the Super Eagles on a permanent basis following confirmation by the Nigerian Football Federation, NFF.
Once Finidi’s appointment is finalized, here are some key points to know about him:
Nigerian Legend
Finidi George is a true legend of Nigerian football. The former winger had a brilliant playing career representing the Super Eagles.
For over a decade, from 1991 to 2002, he earned 62 caps and scored 6 goals. He was a key member of the dream team that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and Olympic gold in Atlanta in 1996.
Club and Country Achievements
Not only did Finidi George play for Nigeria, but he also experienced immense success at club level representing Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam and Real Betis.
He is an Ajax legend, spending six years with the Dutch giants from 1993 to 1999 and winning numerous titles, including the UEFA Champions League in 1995.
The new boss of the Super Eagles, George, who was part of the team as an assistant to Jose Peseiro and then in an interim capacity, also reached the Copa Del Rey final with Real Betis in 1996.
Nigerian League Champion
Although his greatest playing days were in Europe, George also has recent coaching experience in the Nigerian league.
He led Enyimba to the Nigerian Professional Football League title in 2019, underscoring his qualifications to take on the top position with the Super Eagles. Finidi is also on course to defend the NPFL title as Enyimba is just 2 points behind league leaders Rangers Int’l with 6 matches to go.
Fully UEFA Qualified
There should be no doubt about George’s coaching credentials. He holds the UEFA Pro license, the highest certification a coach can achieve after completing the required courses.
Having learned from the famed Ajax academy and the Dutch philosophy of “total football” as a player, Finidi will likely aim to instill an attacking, possession-based style with the Super Eagles.
His roots at Ajax give him an outstanding coaching pedigree, and this should excite Super Eagles fans.
Calm Personality
One of the traits that could serve Finidi George well is his calm demeanor. As a player, he was known for his composure on the ball and measured approach.
That same calm under pressure will be essential in managing the huge expectations that come with coaching the Super Eagles.
The NFF must now support George and provide him with a conducive environment to implement his philosophy and ideas with the national team.
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