Lagos, Nigeria – June 17, 2024: Former Ajax winger Finidi George has resigned from his role as coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles. The decision, confirmed by ex-Super Eagles media officer Toyin Ibitoye via a post on X.com (formerly Twitter), comes on the heels of a turbulent period for the national team and significant administrative changes by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
Ibitoye’s post read: “News just in. Finidi George #FinidiGeorge_FG has resigned from his #NGSuperEagles manager position.” George’s resignation follows the NFF’s contentious decision to appoint a foreign head coach to oversee the team, sidelining George despite his recent appointment in May.
George, 53, who took over as the head coach after the expiration of Jose Peseiro’s contract in February, had previously served as Peseiro’s assistant for 20 months. His tenure, however, was marred by disappointing performances in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, including a significant setback against South Africa and a critical loss to Benin.
The NFF’s decision to appoint a foreign coach was reportedly driven by the team’s underwhelming performance in these qualifiers. As a result, George’s one-year contract, initially valued at N15 million per month, was set to be downgraded to N5 million. Additionally, the NFF planned to replace his handpicked assistants with staff selected by the incoming foreign coach.
Expressing his frustrations in a meeting with Sports Minister John Enoh, George highlighted a lack of support from the NFF and questioned the commitment of some of Nigeria’s top players during the crucial World Cup qualifiers. His resignation reflects broader discontent with the NFF’s handling of the national team’s management and their approach to securing World Cup qualification.
This development comes as a significant blow to Nigerian football, as George’s departure marks the end of a brief and tumultuous tenure. It underscores ongoing challenges within the management of the Super Eagles and raises questions about the direction of the team as it faces critical upcoming fixtures.
George’s resignation has sparked a wave of reactions among fans and stakeholders, with many calling for a thorough review of the NFF’s policies and a more strategic approach to national team management. As the Super Eagles prepare for their next phase, the spotlight is now on the NFF to ensure stability and inspire confidence in the team’s future direction.
The NFF’s decision to bring in a foreign coach reflects their intent to revive the Super Eagles’ prospects, but it remains to be seen how this will impact the team’s performance and morale moving forward. Finidi George’s exit is a poignant reminder of the complexities and pressures inherent in managing a national team with high expectations on the global stage.