The resignation of Finidi George as head coach of the Super Eagles has stirred conversations within the Nigerian football community, eliciting a range of responses, according to Sunday Punch.
Several former Nigerian internationals refrained from discussing the issue, while a few expressed their thoughts when contacted for their views.
Former midfielder Etim John Esin expressed his disappointment, highlighting the brevity of Finidi’s tenure and urging the Nigeria Football Federation to prioritize making informed decisions.
Esin remarked, “It is disappointing to see him resign so quickly. He held the position for the shortest duration. While he had his chance, he was unable to guide the team to the World Cup. The NFF needs to ensure that the right individuals are in the right positions for Nigerian football to thrive.”
FIFA U-17 World Cup-winning coach Fanny Amun and 1994 AFCON champion Edema Fuludu chose not to comment, with Amun stating, “I cannot discuss an issue that has not been made public,” and Fuludu saying, “I just got home and am about to take a rest.”
Outspoken football critic Harrison Jalla used the opportunity to caution against hiring foreign coaches, emphasizing the importance of supporting indigenous coaching talent. Jalla stated, “Discussing the recruitment of a foreign coach in Nigeria’s current situation, especially amid wage negotiations, is inappropriate. Nigerian football stakeholders would strongly oppose any move to burden the government with the expenses of a foreign coach.”
1994 World Cup team member Emeka Ezeugo offered a comprehensive perspective, criticizing the stakeholders whose actions have hindered Nigerian football’s progress.
Ezeugo argued, “The path is clear for those willing to collaborate. We have entrusted crucial roles to the wrong individuals, resulting in the appointment of incompetent coaches, players, sports administrators, and technical committee members. The failure of our football system stems from planting cassava but expecting to harvest plantains. Blaming Finidi George for our shortcomings is misguided.”
During the 2026 World Cup CAF Qualifying campaign under former coach Jose Peseiro, the Super Eagles faced a challenging start, drawing their initial group matches against Lesotho and Zimbabwe. However, after the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, Finidi took over and faced criticism for the team’s underwhelming performances, including draws against South Africa and a loss to Benin Republic, leaving their qualification hopes uncertain.