Finidi George: Former Nigeria International Outlines Major Issue With Super Eagles Coach

• Expectations were high when Finidi George was hired as Nigeria's coach, but the faith has dwindled in the last few weeks
• He is yet to register a win in his first two competitive matches, and he was verbally attacked by Napoli star, Victor Osimhen
• Former Nigeria international, Duke Udi, has claimed that Finidi has a major problem that will hinder his success as coach

Finidi George's tenure as Nigeria started on the wrong foot.

The Super Eagles failed to beat South Africa and Benin in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, leaving their campaign in tatters.

Former Nigeria international, Duke Udi, has detailed Finidi's biggest problem amid a crisis in the team.

Finidi was hired as the permanent coach two months ago to replace Jose Peseiro, who left after his contract ended in February.

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There were mixed reactions to his appointment, but after coaching his first two competitive matches, things turned toxic. The Super Eagles drew 1-1 with South Africa at home and suffered a surprise defeat to Benin, leaving them winless in the World Cup qualifiers.

After the dust had settled, African Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen, launched a scathing attack on Finidi, who allegedly questioned his commitment to the national team, per Channels TV.

There were widespread reports that he had resigned from his role, but the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has not issued an official statement on the matter.

What is Finidi's biggest problem?

Former Super Eagles star, Duke Udi, concluded that Finidi is not a manager but a coach, which is a big challenge for the former Ajax star.

"In Finidi's case, he is a coach but wants to transition into a manager, which will be difficult. Finidi is not a manager. He rushed into the position because he wanted the job. But managers are different," per Brila FM.

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Udi highlighted that Nigeria no longer strikes fear into teams like before.

"Sometimes, when you watch the Super Eagles, they look ordinary. We wonder, with all these superstars we've packed, what is happening? Before, even if you beat us, you would sweat."

"We used to thrash Benin four or five to nothing. If the Benin Republic heard we were coming. They were always scared to play us. Now they don't fear us anymore, despite all our best players."

Finidi was tasked to lead Nigeria to glory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, but his status as coach is still unclear.

Sam Sodje wants Finidi fired

Sports Brief earlier reported on former Nigeria star, Sam Sodje, criticising Finidi following the defeat to Benin on June 10.

Sodje said Finidi should be fired since he hasn't gotten the results he was asked to bring, underlining that the former Real Betis man is not the right man for the role.