In a stunning turn of events, Finidi George has resigned from his position as the head coach of Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles. This decision follows a series of disappointing performances by the team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, culminating in a critical meeting between the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) leadership and the Minister of Sports.
The Super Eagles’ journey to the World Cup was fraught with challenges. The team’s inability to secure victories against key opponents such as South Africa and the Benin Republic left them in a precarious position in Group C, with their hopes for qualification hanging by a thread. The Guild of Sports Editors in Nigeria voiced their concern over the team’s dismal showing and called for immediate reforms within the NFF.
Amidst mounting pressure, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau expressed his deep sadness over the team’s performance, signalling a possible shift in strategy for the national team’s management. This sentiment was echoed during a high-stakes meeting with Senator John Owan Enoh, Minister of Sports Development, who summoned the NFF to provide explanations for the Super Eagles’ lacklustre results.
The final straw came when the NFF announced plans to bring in a foreign technical adviser, suggesting a lack of confidence in George’s ability to steer the team back on course. In response, George tendered his resignation, confirmed by former Eagles media officer Toyin Ibitoye and later by George himself via SMS when asked about his engagement with the team.
In another development, Victor Osimhen appears upset with Finidi George.
Reports indicate that Osimhen has publicly denied claims made by George regarding his absence from the Super Eagles camp. In an Instagram live session, Osimhen clarified that he was injured while playing for his club and had undergone surgery, which was why he was absent. He expressed his disappointment and stated that he had lost respect for George, who had accused him of withdrawing from national team matches due to minor injuries.
