The newly appointed Rivers United head coach, Finidi George, has disclosed the top 5 Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) clubs he was advised to consider coaching before joining Enyimba.
Speaking at his press briefing on Wednesday, Finidi revealed that Rivers United, Enyimba, Akwa United, Enugu Rangers, and Plateau United were the top teams on his radar, Footballrover reports.
This revelation came after Finidi signed a two-year contract with the Pride of Rivers and was questioned about his ambitions regarding coaching a Rivers state team.
The former Super Eagles coach stated,
“I must tell you that, before I came to Enyimba, these were the clubs I was told were the best in the country: Rivers United, Enyimba, Akwa United, Enugu Rangers, and I think maybe Plateau United.”
Finidi clarified that Enyimba presented the first available opportunity, leading him to accept their offer.
However, he harboured the belief that his path would eventually cross with Rivers United.
“So long as I do well in the league, there will be that opportunity to coach Rivers United, and that opportunity has come, and I must make the best out of it,” Finidi added.
A decorated player with stints at Ajax and Real Betis, Finidi transitioned into management in September 2021, taking the reins at Enyimba.
???? WATCH NOW! The Official Unveiling of Finidi George as Rivers United FC's Technical Manager
Relive the excitement as Finidi George is officially unveiled as our new Technical Manager!
???? Highlights from the unveiling ceremony and public presentation #FinidiGeorge pic.twitter.com/jNE1bEwpMC
— Rivers United FC (@RiversUnitedFC) July 5, 2024
He replaced Fatai Osho, whose contract expired the previous month.
His immediate task was to lead Enyimba to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup and to contend for the domestic league title.
Despite having no prior managerial experience in the NPFL, Finidi swiftly displayed his capabilities, and his maiden season proved a resounding success.
He steered the People’s Elephant to their ninth NPFL title, clinching it with a 1-1 draw against Rivers United in their final Super Six playoff match at the Mobalaji Johnson Stadium.
This result left Rivers United in third place and destined for the CAF Confederation Cup.
Finidi has now made a return to his professional starting point in Port Harcourt, and with his long-standing respect for the Pride of Rivers, one would surely expect an exciting new chapter for Rivers United.
Love defined ????: Finidi George! ????
The football legend has returned to his roots, taking the reins as Rivers United FC's Technical Manager! ❤️
Get ready for a love affair with the beautiful game! ???? #FinidiGeorge #RiversUnitedFC #LoveForTheGame pic.twitter.com/MXlbW8stBC
— Rivers United FC (@RiversUnitedFC) July 4, 2024
He will surely bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in the NPFL.
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