Finidi George: Five standout qualities that make ex-Ajax man a perfect fit for the Super Eagles coaching job

After weeks of speculations, the Nigeria Football Federation on Monday appointed Finidi George as the head coach of the Super Eagles.

Many would be surprised as former Barcelona winger Emmanuel Amunike was the bookmaker’s favourite to be named Jose Peseiro’s successor.

Finidi George failed to impress fans when he handled the Super Eagles as caretaker coach in friendlies against Ghana and Mali in March.

However, Soccernet.ng‘s Imhons Erons looks to draw attention to five defining qualities that render Finidi a seamless fit for the prestigious head coach role.

Stellar international career

George’s illustrious playing career, marked by 62 caps for Nigeria, speaks volumes about his deep understanding of the game.

As a member of the famed ‘Golden Generation,’ he contributed significantly to Nigeria’s triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and subsequent World Cup appearances.

His experience as a player, particularly on the international stage, equips him with invaluable insights into the demands and dynamics of top-tier competition.

European pedigree

Having plied his trade in esteemed clubs such as Ajax Amsterdam and Real Betis, George brings a wealth of European football experience to the table.

With Ajax, George won the Champions League, claimed three Eredivisie titles, clinched the Johan Cruijff Shield twice, and secured the UEFA Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup.

He is considered a hero at Real Betis, impressed at Mallorca, and played in the Premier League with Ipswich Town.

His spell with these clubs not only honed his skills but also exposed him to diverse tactical approaches and managerial styles.

This exposure is poised to enrich his coaching philosophy, infusing it with a blend of European sophistication and African flair.

Tactical acumen

George’s stint as an assistant to José Santos Peseiro gave him a firsthand glimpse into the intricacies of coaching at the highest level.

During his 20-month tenure, he contributed to the Super Eagles’ commendable performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, culminating in a runner-up finish.

His interim role as head coach in recent friendly matches underscores his readiness to assume greater leadership responsibilities within the team.

Ability to work under pressure

With crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying matches looming, George’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment.

The former Sharks FC star will be expected to make an immediate impact with the Super Eagles and guide the team to victory against South Africa and the Benin Republic.

However, this is not the first time George will be placed in a high-pressure situation.

He was appointed the head coach of Enyimba FC – Nigeria’s most successful club – in 2021.

Interestingly, in his first full season with the club, he led the Aba Elephants to their ninth league title and his first as a coach, winning the Nigeria Premier League at Onikan Stadium in Lagos.

With his track record of delivering under pressure, George is the ideal candidate to galvanize the Super Eagles and reignite their pursuit of World Cup qualification.

Passion for development

George’s illustrious professional career began on the local scene in 1989.

The retired winger played for Calabar Rovers, Iwuanyanwu Nationale, and Sharks before leaving for Europe in 1993.

He has come full circle to now work with the best of local talents at Enyimba FC.

In essence, if there is any Nigerian coach who can be committed to nurturing and integrating the finest talents in the NPFL to the Super Eagles to ensure the team’s long-term development and sustainability, it is Finidi George.

It is about time to unearth the next Sunday Mba and Oghenekaro Etebo and power Nigeria back to the pinnacle of African and possibly world football.

NB: Do you think Finidi George is the best fit to be the Super Eagles coach? Kindly, leave your comments below.