Finidi George: Why I resigned as Super Eagles coach

Finidi George has explained the reasons behind his resignation as the head coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

George stated this in his resignation letter addressed to the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Shehu Gusau, on Friday, June 14, 2024.

The former Ajax forward, who was appointed as the coach of the country’s men national team on April 29, was reported to have resigned as the Super Eagles coach on Saturday, June 15.

The ace winger, who had overseen two Super Eagles games since his appointment, spent 20 months as assistant to Jose Peseiro before the Portuguese voluntarily left the post after guiding the team to silver medal at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.

He, however, hinged his resignation on the recent decision to effect changes to the team’s technical crew.

George noted: “I am writing you of my decision to step down as the head coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s men’s senior team.

“This decision is in light of the recent decision to effect changes to the team’s technical crew.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the entire leadership of the federation, the sports ministry, and the people of Nigeria for the opportunity to serve as the head coach of the Super Eagles.

NFF: We’re not aware of Finidi George’s resignation

“Although, our recent results in the qualifying matches were not as desired, I remained committed to getting our World Cup qualification campaign back on track.

“However, with the recent changes to the technical crew, I believe it is time to vacate my position.

“Please be assured of my continued support for the team, and I wish us all the best for the future.”

The NFF had earlier said it was unaware of George’s resignation.

There were claims that the former Super Eagles forward tendered his resignation after the NFF leadership met with the Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh.

The Star had reported that Enoh summoned the NFF’s leadership over the Super Eagles’ poor results in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

The Super Eagles managed to secure only one point from a possible six, following a 1-1 draw with South Africa in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and losing 2-1 to Benin Republic in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, in the third and fourth game in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying series.

The results left the Super Eagles with just three points from a possible 12.

The Star