Nigeria to Hire New Coach After Finidi George 53 ,Resigns: What is the Future for Home-Based Players?

Finidi George, a former Super Eagles player, recently resigned as the head coach of Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles. His tenure, though relatively short, was marked by significant efforts to rebuild and reposition the team on the global stage, aiming to revive the glory days of ’94 and Atlanta ’96. George took on the role of head coach in 2024 after the departure of the 67-year-old Portuguese coach, Jose Peseiro. His wealth of experience from his playing days and coaching stints in various capacities was unquestionable, as anything the class of ’94 does is considered commendable.

George’s appointment was met with optimism, given his illustrious career as a player, including a successful stint with Ajax Amsterdam and the Nigerian national team. In September 2021, George was appointed head coach of Nigerian club Enyimba F.C. and won the Nigeria Premier League with them in June 2023. He was seen as a figure who could inspire the new generation of Super Eagles players with his vast knowledge and experience. During his tenure, he coached the Super Eagles in four matches, securing just one win in a friendly against Ghana, one draw against South Africa, and two losses to Mali and a surprising defeat to Benin Republic, led by former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr. His coaching style emphasized attacking football and the inclusion of home-based players, aiming to blend youthful exuberance with experienced leadership.

However, George’s resignation came as a surprise to many. According to Collin Udoh, “The reason being that he met with the NFF on Thursday, and they had a very good conversation. They spoke about the things they need to do going forward, and he (Finidi) asked if he would be back. At no point during that meeting did anyone tell him they were going to appoint a foreign technical adviser. The NFF board had met on Wednesday and made that decision. But it was when Finidi landed in Port Harcourt after that meeting that someone called him and informed him. He (Finidi) had to park his car and read the link to see that it was actually true. So he waited for two days to see if anyone would contact him, but nobody spoke to him. So he (Finidi) felt they didn’t want him anymore, and he decided to turn in his resignation.”

The NFF now faces the task of finding a suitable replacement to continue the development of the Super Eagles. George’s departure raises questions about the future direction of the team, particularly concerning the integration and development of home-based players. He had already featured two home-based players in just four games as the Super Eagles manager. Remo Stars FC defender Sodiq Ismail has voiced his disappointment at Finidi George’s resignation as the head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles. Ismail is the first player from Remo Stars to be called up to Nigeria’s national team. He received his debut call-up in May when Coach Finidi named his squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic in June.

Now, the big question on the minds of many Nigerians is this: What is the future of home-based players in the national team? As the NFF looks forward to bringing in a new manager, the joy of these players may be cut short. Most importantly, were they good enough to earn their spots in the team? The future of home-based players hangs in the balance as Nigeria seeks a new direction under a new coach.