Nigeria Football Chief Explains NFF’s Decision Not to Appoint Assistants for Finidi George: Report

• The Nigeria Football Federation had recently named Finidi George as coach of the Super Eagles
• The 52-year-old was appointed without any assistants or technical staff being officially named
• A Nigerian football chief explained why the NFF appointed Finidi as a coach without assistants

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) brought to an end the lengthy search for a permanent head coach for the Super Eagles with the announcement of Finidi George as coach on April 29.

The 52-year-old, who previously served as assistant to former manager, Jose Peseiro, is saddled with the responsibility of qualifying the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) finalists for the 2025 edition of the showpiece, as well as securing a spot at the 2026 edition of the FIFA World Cup.

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However, amidst the buzz surrounding the former Real Betis forward’s appointment and the ambitious targets set for the former Real Betis winger, one aspect continues to draw attention: the fact that Finidi was appointed as manager without any assistants or technical staff to support him.

This unexpected move by the Football Federation has raised eyebrows and sparked concerns within the country's footballing community.

However, addressing these concerns, a member of the NFF technical committee has provided clarification on the reasoning behind appointing Finidi as manager without a supporting backroom staff.

NFF chief speaks on assistants for Finidi

According to a report by OwnGoalNigeria, the high-ranking NFF official who opted to speak in anonymity, explained that the decision not to appoint assistants and technical staff for the new manager was deliberate. It was made to ensure that the manager has the freedom to select his own team members.

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The NFF official emphasised that allowing Finidi to choose his own assistants would be beneficial in the long run. It would ensure that the manager only works with individuals who share his vision and give him a sense of empowerment, as he would be in charge of making key decisions.

However, the Nigeria football chief clarified that while the NFF would recommend a few assistants and backroom staff to the new manager, the ultimate decision on their selection rests solely with Finidi.

Finidi's first challenge with the Nigerian team will be a match against rivals South Africa on June 3.

NFF discloses contract details of next Super Eagles coach

In another report, Sports Brief stated that the NFF have disclosed the contract details for the next Super Eagles coach.

The football federation are prepared to offer the next manager a two-year contract, along with a salary reported to be around $50,000.