'I have heard' - Amaju Pinnick confirms NFF close to hiring enterprising Super Eagles coach

Former President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Melvin Pinnick, has addressed the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the coaching situation of the Super Eagles, revealing that a managerial announcement is imminent.

The Super Eagles have been without a permanent manager since June 2024, following the resignation of Finidi George.

Finidi stepped down after failing to secure a victory in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin.

In the aftermath of his resignation, the NFF attempted to appoint German coach Bruno Labbadia to lead the team for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. 

However, the deal collapsed due to financial constraints. Consequently, Austin Eguavoen was appointed on an interim basis and successfully guided Nigeria to qualification for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

Despite Eguavoen's positive performance, concerns have persisted about the long-term coaching situation, especially with the resumption of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March 2025 approaching.

In a recent interview with Channels Television, monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, Pinnick attributed the delay in appointing a permanent coach to financial challenges.

"I know a lot is going on. First, they need to have funds so that they don't say that we are owning and that the Chairman of the Sports Commission is working with them in ensuring that it is done, which also I believe they've done that just last week," Pinnick explained.

Pinnick also hinted that an official announcement is forthcoming, suggesting that the incoming coach would arrive with a comprehensive support team.

"Any moment from now I'm sure they will be announcing a coach, an enterprising coach. I have heard about who they are bringing.

"It's not just a coach with a retinue of backroom staff that will help him. They don't just want to deal with a coach. Who is going to be the physical trainer, goalkeeper trainer, analyst, video analyst, defender trainer?

"They are coming out with an entire coaching crew. They have to look for the money. If you want quality results, you must put your mouth to where your money belongs," he added.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria face the risk of missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

Currently sitting fifth in their group with just three points from four matches, they trail table-toppers Rwanda by four points ahead of their crucial clash in March.

The NFF would hope to resolve the coaching situation promptly and begin early preparations to boost Nigeria's chances of securing a spot in the tournament, set to be hosted by Canada, the USA, and Mexico.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com