Keshi, Amodu and the Best Indigenous Super Eagles Coaches of All Time As NFF Names Finidi Manager

• The Nigeria Football Federation have appointed Finidi George as the coach of the Super Eagles
• The 53-year-old could grow into one of the best indigenous coaches to lead the Nigerian team
• Sports Brief has compiled a list of the best local managers in the history of the Super Eagles

After a three-month-long search for a coach for the team, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) eventually settled on appointing an indigenous manager for the Super Eagles.

Finidi George's appointment as manager aligns with fans' calls for an indigenous coach, particularly following the recent disappointments under foreign coaches, including that of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

It's no secret that some of Nigeria's glorious footballing moments have been under the tutelage of indigenous coaches and that resulted in the clamour for a return to that winning formula.

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However, Finidi's appointment is not without its challenges. Beyond the immediate tasks of securing qualifications for the 2026 World Cup and the 2025 AFCON, he faces a sea of doubt and scepticism regarding his coaching prowess and capabilities.

Moreover, he follows in the footsteps of successful indigenous managers, which subtly adds more pressure to his role.

In light of this, Sports Brief takes a closer look at a list of the best indigenous managers in the history of the Super Eagles.

Best indigenous coach in Nigeria’s history

Christian Chukwu

The 73-year-old stands out as one of Nigeria's most successful indigenous managers in recent memory. A veteran coach and former captain of the victorious Nigerian team at the 1980 AFCON, he took charge of the Super Eagles from 2003 to 2005, following a stint with the Kenyan national team. Coach Chukwu's tenure saw Nigeria secure a bronze medal at the 2004 AFCON.

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Shuaibu Amodu

Another former international player for the Nigerian team, the late coach managed the national squad on five separate occasions. During his many stints, between 2001 and 2015, he saw Nigeria qualify for the FIFA World Cup on two different occasions and also led the team to bronze medals at the AFCON twice - in 2002 and 2010. Sadly, Amodu passed away due to a heart-related issue in June 2016.

Stephen Keshi

Fondly known as 'the Big Boss', Keshi is arguably the best indigenous coach ever appointed by the NFF. The former Super Eagles captain led Nigeria to their third AFCON title in South Africa in 2013, becoming only the second manager in the competition's history to achieve success both as a player and a manager. Keshi also steered Nigeria to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, where they were eliminated by France in the Round of 16. Tragically, he passed away in June 2016 following a heart attack.

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Were Finidi to surpass the achievements of these revered managers, he would undoubtedly endear himself to many Nigerians who doubt his coaching credentials.

Amunike speaks on Super Eagles coaching role

Sports Brief also previously reported on Emmanuel Amunike, speaking after the NFF appointed Finidi as coach of the Super Eagles.

The 53-year-old tactician, a former Barcelona player, was considered the favourite for the role until the new coach was appointed.