Former Nigerian international, Finidi George will be the interim head coach of the Super Eagles ahead of their upcoming friendlies against Ghana and Mali.
The 52-year-old will take charge of the team in the absence of a permanent manager following the departure of Jose Peseiro.
Peseiro’s contract expired after leading Nigeria to the runners-up spot at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), in Ivory Coast this year. The Portuguese tactician spent over 22 months with the Super Eagles before announcing his exit on social media. He expressed gratitude to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the players.
George, who won the UEFA Champions League during his playing career, recently guided domestic club Enyimba to a record-extending ninth Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), title last season. His experience with the current crop of Super Eagles players and deep knowledge of the team could prove invaluable during this transitional period.
The former assistant coach will have the opportunity to exhibit his coaching chops when Nigeria faces West African rivals Ghana on Friday, at the Grand Stade de Marrakech in Morocco. Four days later, the Super Eagles will take on Mali at the same venue. George’s interim role could be an audition for the permanent managerial position.
That is why being the interim coach is a pivotal move in the managerial career for the former UEFA Champions League winner. A strong showing in the upcoming friendlies could cement his case for being appointed as the long-term solution for the Nigerian national team. Whether that will yield fruits in the World Cup or the next AFCON remains to be seen.
