In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian football community, Finidi George has tendered his resignation as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles, just two months into his tenure. The decision comes on the heels of a disappointing run for the national team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and an apparent communication breakdown with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) hierarchy.
According to reports, Finidi’s departure stemmed from his dissatisfaction with the NFF’s plan to relegate him to a supporting role, working under a yet-to-be-hired Technical Adviser. This decision was communicated through an NFF communique issued on Thursday, catching the 58-year-old former player by surprise.
Finidi, who had met with the NFF officials earlier this week, was reportedly left in the dark about the intended restructuring of the coaching setup. It was only upon his arrival in Port Harcourt on Thursday that he learned of the NFF’s plans to reassign him, prompting his immediate resignation.
The former international’s brief stint as the Super Eagles’ Head Coach has been marred by a string of disappointing results in the ongoing 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Under his guidance, the three-time African champions managed only a 1-1 draw against South Africa and suffered a 2-1 defeat to Benin in Abidjan.
These underwhelming performances have left Nigeria languishing in fifth place in Group C, with a mere three points from four matches. The team currently trails Rwanda, South Africa, Benin Republic, and Lesotho in the group standings, a far cry from the lofty expectations of a nation with a rich footballing history.
Finidi’s departure has once again thrown the Super Eagles’ coaching setup into disarray, with the NFF now tasked with finding a suitable replacement to steady the ship and reignite the team’s World Cup aspirations. The uncertainty surrounding the coaching position adds to the mounting pressure on the Nigerian football authorities, who have faced criticism for the team’s recent struggles.
As the search for a new Head Coach commences, the Nigerian football faithful will be hoping for a swift resolution and a turnaround in fortunes for the Super Eagles. The team’s dwindling World Cup hopes have ignited a sense of urgency, with fans demanding a decisive and swift response from the NFF to address the on-field woes.
Finidi George’s resignation marks the end of a tumultuous chapter for the Super Eagles, one that has left more questions than answers. As the team prepares to embark on a new era under fresh leadership, the focus will be on restoring the pride and glory of Nigerian football on the global stage.
