Former Super Eagles star, Finidi George, recently announced as the new head coach of the Nigerian national team, has received backing from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for his choice of foreign assistants.
The revelation was made by Amaju Pinnick, the former president of the NFF, in an interview with Arise TV.
Pinnick expressed his belief that it is within the federation’s capacity to fund George’s choice for foreign assistants. He cited previous instances where Nigerian coaches, including Bonfrere Jo, Sunday Oliseh, and Samson Siasia, had foreign assistants. “It is not new and it is not bad for him to demand the same,” Pinnick said.
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The former NFF president also highlighted the evolving nature of backroom staffing in football, describing it as more scientific now. He acknowledged the critical role of assistant coaches, stating, “The assistant coaches are the engine room of the success of any coach because they see what the coach can’t see.”
However, Pinnick also noted that the funding of these positions depends on the federation. He suggested that if there is a shortage of funds, it can be discussed with George. “Finidi George should be allowed to do what he wants to do. But if there is a paucity of funds, they can discuss it with him,” he added.
This development comes as George prepares to lead the Nigerian national team, succeeding his former boss, Jose Peseiro. With the NFF’s backing, George’s tenure is off to a promising start as he aims to steer the Super Eagles to new heights.