April 21, (THEWILL) – The Nigeria Football Federation is set to name Emmanuel Amunike as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, according to sources familiar with the selection process. This decision comes after Jose Peseiro’s departure from the role in February. Amunike, a former Barcelona star, previously led Nigeria’s Under-17 team to glory at the FIFA U17 World Cup.
After screening applications from both foreign and indigenous coaches over the past few weeks, the NFF have reportedly settled on Amuneke. Reports indicate that the Federation’s decision to hire an indigenous coach stems from its inability to pay a foreign manager. An official announcement regarding the appointment of the new Super Eagles head coach is expected from the NFF.
Renowned for his coaching abilities, Amunike achieved success with the Golden Eaglets, guiding the Nigeria U17 national team to victory in the FIFA U17 World Cup. He also impressed as head coach of the Tanzanian national team, leading the Taifa Stars to qualify for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations after a nearly forty-year absence.
However, Amuneke’s coaching record with Egypt’s Misr Lel Makkasa and Zambia’s Zanaco received criticism, and his time with the Flying Eagles saw the team fail to qualify for the U20 AFCON in 2017. The 53-year-old tactician and Atlanta 1996 gold medallist discovered Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze during his time as Golden Eaglets coach.
The former Super Eagles assistant coach and member of the victorious Super Eagles squad that won the 2013 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), now takes on the challenge of leading the senior national team. George Finidi, the current manager of Enyimba FC, will continue serving as one of the assistants, a position he previously held under Peseiro.
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Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
