Finidi George: Super Eagles Coach Explains His Tactics and Preferred Style of Play

Finidi George: Super Eagles Coach Explains His Tactics and Preferred Style of Play

Ero Samson
updated at May 3, 2024 at 12:19 PM
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  • Finidi George was recently appointed manager of the Super Eagles of Nigeria
  • The 53-year-old is tasked with leading the Nigerian team to the 2025 AFCON
  • The Enyimba FC boss recently outlined his tactics and preferred style of play

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The appointment of Finidi George as coach of the Super Eagles has sparked lively conversations within Nigeria’s footballing community.

Despite being seen as an outsider for the role, the 53-year-old was named coach by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), much to the surprise of many.

Following this unexpected announcement, discussions have emerged regarding the ideal style and tactics he should implement with the current national team players.

Finidi George, Super Eagles, Nigeria, Coach, AFCON, tactics, Training
Finidi George in conversation with Victor Osimhen during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. Image: @NFF.
Source: Twitter

This is especially pertinent as, during his tenure as interim coach, he chose to continue the highly criticised tactics employed by former manager, Jose Peseiro, at the Africa Cup of Nations.

In light of the growing scepticism, the Enyimba coach has explained his preferred style of play and tactics, aiming to address concerns and set expectations for his tenure.

Finidi speaks on his style of play

In an interview with OwnGoalNigeria, the former Real Betis winger gave fans a glimpse of what to expect during his tenure as manager.

"I like to have control of the game and keep possession of the ball. This is important in any tactical approach. I prefer a 4-4-2 formation with two players in the attack, but this can change depending on how the game unfolds. I also enjoy seeing players close to each other on the field, which is why I also like the 4-3-3 formation."

Finidi's first official challenge as head coach of the Super Eagles will be in the crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier game against South Africa, with the Super Eagles third in their group.

Finidi to commence camp with local players

Sports Brief also recently reported on newly appointed coach of the Nigerian team, Finidi, gearing up to kick off a training camp with the national team, predominantly comprising homegrown players.

This decision comes as foreign players are currently unavailable, tied up with their club commitments, with the exact calibre of players expected to participate in the team's camp has yet to be confirmed.

Authors
Ero Samson photo
Ero Samson
Samson Ero is a sports journalist with a track record of over five years in the Nigerian media industry. He graduated from Nigerian Institute of Journalism (2021-2023).
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Nigeria Football Federation (NFF)