NFF chief replies to Amunike criticisms after Finidi’s appointment as Super Eagles coach

The conversation regarding the coaching saga of the Super Eagles of Nigeria lingers on despite the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) appointing Finidi George as manager of the national team.

Following Finidi's appointment, Emmanuel Amunike, widely considered a front-runner for the position, expressed his thoughts in the media regarding the circumstances surrounding the decision of the federation's technical committee to not select him as the Nigerian team's manager.

According to a report by Punch Sports, the 53-year-old hinted at strained relationships and other peculiar occurrences, suggesting that these factors played a crucial role in the NFF's decision.

However, a member of the NFF technical committee has responded to Amunike's claims, asserting that Amunike is aware of the specific reasons why he was not chosen for the role.

NFF chief replies Amunike
According to a report by OwnGoalNigeria, a member of the NFF technical committee, speaking anonymously, clarified that Amunike understands that Finidi was chosen as manager over him primarily due to the desire for continuity within the team, rather than any strained relationship.

The committee member, however, acknowledged that some reports suggesting tensions between Amunike and the NFF hold validity to a certain extent.

Nevertheless, the committee member concluded by emphasising that Amunike's less-than-impressive track record as a senior national team manager also significantly influenced the decision.

Amunike’s record at the senior coaching level has subtly been underwhelming. Additionally, he was also part of the coaching set-up that failed to qualify Nigeria for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The former Tanzania coach's most notable success in national team football dates back to 2015 when he led Nigeria to victory in the U17 FIFA World Cup.