Super Eagles defender Kenneth Omeruo has stressed the urgency for the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to appoint a new coach before their crucial clash against South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Since Portuguese tactician Jose Peseiro’s departure in February, the national team has been without a permanent coach, despite their upcoming fixture against South Africa in June. Despite interim coach Finidi George’s efforts during recent matches, including a victory against Ghana and a loss to Mali, Omeruo emphasized the need for stability and proper leadership within the team.
Omeruo highlighted the importance of swiftly resolving the coaching situation to focus on the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. With Nigeria’s mixed start in the qualifiers, Omeruo believes that timely appointment of a new coach is crucial for the team’s success in securing a spot in the prestigious tournament.
Super Eagles defender, Kenneth Omeruo, has called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to sort out the appointment of new head coach for the team as soon as possible.
The three-time African champions are still without a substantive head coach after Portuguese Jose Peseiro left the post at the end of February.
Former international winger, Finidi George took charge of the team for the friendlies against Ghana and Mali last month.
“We started the World Cup qualifiers poorly, and that’s on us as players, but I do believe we have the quality to qualify for the World Cup. But we need to sort out the issue of head coach real quickly because June is just around the corner,” Omeruo told Brila.
The centre-back also reiterated his support for Finidi to get the job on a permanent basis.
“I don’t know about everyone, but for me and a few others, he (Finidi) did well. He was short-staffed. Only one coach working as an analyst, training without an assistant,” Omeruo added.
“I like that he kept the same system we used at the AFCON. But against Mali, I would have played everyone, give everyone a chance to play, and maybe things would have turned out differently, and he would be a strong contender for the job.”
As the countdown to the South Africa clash begins, Omeruo’s call underscores the imperative for the NFF to act decisively and ensure the Super Eagles are well-prepared under new leadership.
