Emmanuel Amuneke, a former national team player and FIFA U-17 World Cup-winning coach, has been announced as the new coach of Heartland ahead of the upcoming 2024/25 season.
The unveiling ceremony took place at the new executive chamber of the Government House in Owerri, where Governor Hope Uzodinma made the announcement on Monday.
Amuneke’s appointment follows his earlier involvement with the club as a consultant and his management of the team’s open screening event last month.
Prior to accepting this position, the former Nigerian forward was a candidate for the Super Eagles coaching role, which was eventually given to Finidi George, the new coach of Rivers United.
While the details of the contract were not disclosed, Heartland’s participation in the NPFL next season remains uncertain due to their relegation last season.
Reports suggest that discussions are underway between Heartland and the newly promoted club, Beyond Limits, regarding the potential acquisition of their NPFL slot, although officials from Imo State have downplayed these speculations.
Heartland’s relegation to the Nigeria National League for the third time occurred after a 4-1 defeat against Remo Stars during an NPFL match-day 36 fixture in Ikenne back in June.
Their demotion to the second tier followed just one season after their promotion to the top flight.
The team encountered difficulties throughout the previous season, marked by a series of managerial changes and crises.
In November 2023, Kennedy Boboye, the current coach of Sunshine Stars, managed the team for six matches before Governor Uzodinma reinstated former coach Christian Obi.
Heartland suffered their initial relegation in 2016, with the second occurring during the 2021/22 season.
Originally established as Spartans FC in 1985 and later renamed Iwuanyanwu Nationale from 1985 to 2006, Heartland clinched four consecutive NPFL titles from 1987 to 1990.
They also reached the finals of the 1988 African Cup of Champions Clubs and the 2009 CAF Champions League.