Finidi George’s resignation as Super Eagles head coach has sent shockwaves through Nigerian football.
The former international winger tendered his resignation letter to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Saturday, citing a dressing room crisis and power struggle with some players.
Finidi’s appointment in May was met with optimism, given his experience as an assistant to Jose Peseiro and his interim stint in charge of the Super Eagles.
However, things took a turn for the worse during the friendlies against Ghana and Mali, where he clashed with players over playing time.
The discord continued into the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with key players like Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Frank Onyeka arriving late to camp. This affected the team’s preparation, and Finidi’s inability to stamp his authority on the team was evident.
Some players refused to make sacrifices for the team, with defenders refusing to play in certain positions and midfielders not willing to adapt. This lack of teamwork and discipline contributed to the team’s dismal showing against South Africa.
Furthermore, some players came to camp with injuries and hid them from the technical team and doctors. This unprofessional and unpatriotic behavior further undermined Finidi’s authority.
Finidi’s tactical ability was also called into question, with poor substitutions and a lack of tactical savvy evident in both games. The team’s performance suffered as a result, and Finidi’s resignation was seen as inevitable.
The NFF is yet to react to Finidi’s resignation, but the Federation must take responsibility for allowing the situation to escalate. The Super Eagles are now without a permanent manager, and the 2025 AFCON qualifiers and 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers loom.
Finidi’s departure serves as a wake-up call for the NFF to address the deep-seated issues plaguing the Super Eagles. The players must also take responsibility for their actions and prioritize the team’s interests over personal gain.
As Nigerian football fans mourn the demise of Finidi’s reign, they must also demand better from the NFF and the players. The Super Eagles deserve better, and it’s time for change.
The dressing room crisis and power struggle that characterized Finidi’s reign must be addressed, and a new era of discipline, teamwork, and tactical savvy must be ushered in.
The search for a new coach begins, but the NFF must get it right this time. The Super Eagles’ future depends on it.
In the end, Finidi’s resignation serves as a reminder that Nigerian football needs a reset. The status quo is no longer acceptable, and it’s time for a new generation of players and coaches to take the Super Eagles to the next level.
