Former Super Eagles player backs NFF’s decision to hire foreign coach

Former Super Eagles defender George Abbey has backed the decision of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to appoint a foreign Technical Adviser for the team.

Speaking on the move to get a foreign coach, George, a 2004 AFCON bronze medal winner. said it is the best decision.

“I believe these players need to respect the head coach, especially the foreign based players,” George said on Brila FM.

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“I don’t see any local head coach now who would demand the respect required to lead this team. So I believe it’s the right decision to go and look for a capable Technical Adviser who would steer this team in the right direction, who would enforce discipline, bring the right philosophy and hopefully get these players playing in the right way, wanting to give their all to the national team.”

Following the Eagles’ poor performances against South Africa and Benin Republic for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, the NFF executive committee announced that a foreign coach will be appointed.

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The NFF’s decision to hire a foreign coach came just over a month after the appointment of Finidi, who took over from Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro. 

Finidi has since resigned his position as Eagles head coach.

Finidi was also called out by Victor Osimhen on Instagram for allegedly saying he wouldn’t beg him (Osimhen) to play for the Eagles.