Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George has spoken out about the circumstances that led to his resignation as head coach of the Nigerian national football team in June.
In a candid interview, the ex-international revealed how the lack of support and disrespect from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) played a major role in his decision to step down after just two games in charge.
Finidi, who replaced José Peseiro after the Africa Cup of Nations, oversaw a 2-2 draw against South Africa and a 1-2 loss to Benin Republic during his short stint as coach.
Despite the Super Eagles bouncing back under interim coach Austin Eguavoen with a 3-0 victory over Benin Republic, Finidi’s time at the helm was marred by internal challenges.
Speaking to reporters, Finidi, who now coaches Nigeria Premier League side Rivers United, shared his frustrations: “For me, not having the support of the federation was not good enough. They could have backed me, but instead, they were already searching for a new coach without informing me.”
He expressed disappointment over the NFF’s lack of communication and transparency, calling it a “big disrespect” and noting that he couldn’t continue under such circumstances. A meeting with the sports minister did little to change his mind, as it became clear that the NFF had already initiated discussions about bringing in a foreign coach to replace him.
Finidi concluded, “Too many things were going on behind my back, and in front of me, nobody came to say, ‘We support you.’ I just felt I wasn’t given the fullest support, and I won’t be in a place where I’m not wanted.”
The NFF has since appointed Eguavoen, the team’s technical director, as interim coach for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Calls from various quarters have been made for Eguavoen to be given the role permanently, after plans to hire German coach Bruno Labbadia fell through.
