… as NFF hunts for a ‘Technical Adviser’ for the team
Supporters have been celebrating on social media since Finidi George stepped down as the head coach of the Super Eagles last weekend, according to a report by PUNCH Sports Extra.
This news comes after the Nigeria Football Federation’s choice to bring in a foreign technical adviser, following the team’s disappointing performances in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which included a crucial loss to Benin Republic, leaving the Super Eagles struggling in Group C.
The underwhelming results sparked criticism from the football-mad population of the country, still reeling from the frustration of the team’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Finidi, who was appointed as head coach earlier this year, had inked a one-year deal with the NFF, with the chance of an extension based on the team’s performance in the African Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifiers.
During his tenure, he oversaw Nigeria in two international friendlies and served as an assistant coach under the previous head coach, Jose Peseiro. However, the NFF’s decision to enlist a foreign technical adviser was seen as a move to rejuvenate the team’s prospects following a string of poor results.
At present, the NFF has yet to make an official announcement on their website or social media platforms as of the time of this report.
Ibrahim Gusau, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, states that he is unaware of Finidi’s resignation.
Reports suggest that Finidi is upset that the NFF leadership met with the sports minister two days ago without mentioning that players arrived late to camp and that they took no action to rally Nigerians in Ivory Coast to support the Eagles in their recent match against Benin Republic.
When a correspondent from PUNCH messaged Gusau on WhatsApp to confirm Finidi’s resignation, he responded, “Not yet informed.”
On another note, former Super Eagles media officer, Toyin Ibitoye, shared the news on X.com last Saturday, announcing, “Just in – Finidi George #FinidiGeorge_FG has resigned from his #NGSuperEagles manager position.”
Likewise, sports photojournalist #poojamedia mentioned on his X account, “Finidi George RESIGNED after being subtly demoted with the arrival of a foreign technical adviser.”
Fans flooded social media expressing their relief and optimism for a fresh beginning, anticipating that this change will reignite the team’s potential on the global stage.
One fan using the username @viqforlan commended Finidi’s departure stating, “Goodbye to an arrogant and incompetent coach. Let’s move forward and stop trying to recreate the glory of ’94.”
Royal Spring questioned why Finidi delayed his resignation, commenting, “Why did it take him so long? No tactics! No strategy! No player management! Just put them on the field to play. Farewell!”
Anthonio, with the username @anthokneeoh, observed that Finidi seemed unprepared for the role, labeling his resignation as a cowardly act considering the bold promises he made during his appointment.
He wrote, “I think Mr. Finidi didn’t grasp the magnitude of what he signed up for! This is a very cowardly move, after all the grand promises during his introduction. Good riddance.”
Shafi’i Hamidu viewed the resignation as a wise decision, stating, “Smart move for him to resign. Nonetheless, that won’t retrieve the five points lost in the World Cup Qualifying table.
He needs to step aside and provide an opportunity for the new coach. That’s football – a results-driven game. If you can’t deliver, you’re out before morning.”
Ope Tio echoed similar sentiments, saying, “I see this as positive news. He should come forward now and clarify his stance on Victor Osimhen.”
Phil Eze wished Finidi success in his future pursuits, noting, “There has been a deep-seated issue in Nigerian football for a while. Let’s not forget who was at the helm when we missed out on the World Cup and AFCON. Look inward and eradicate the problem at its roots. Otherwise, another foreign coach is just a temporary fix. Best of luck, Finidi.”