Nigeria’s former international, Finidi George, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Super Eagles, stepping into the role vacated by Jose Peseiro.

Following Peseiro’s departure after Nigeria’s loss to Ivory Coast in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final, the 53-year-old George assumed interim charge. He recently led the team in two friendly matches, securing a victory against Ghana but facing a setback with a loss to Mali.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) formally confirmed George’s appointment, endorsing the recommendation from its technical and development committee. George, who also manages Enyimba, the club he led to the Nigerian title last year, is expected to continue in that role until the season’s end.

A former Ajax and Real Betis winger, George brings significant experience to the position, having served as Peseiro’s assistant for 20 months. His international career saw him netting six goals in 62 appearances for Nigeria, including during the memorable Nations Cup victory in 1994 and the team’s debut in the FIFA World Cup that same year.

George faces immediate pressure to deliver results, with Nigeria’s upcoming qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup looming in June. The Super Eagles, after drawing their initial Group C matches, consider the upcoming fixtures against South Africa and Benin as must-win encounters.

The appointment of George, chosen over notable contenders like Emmanuel Amuneke and Domenec Torrent, underscores the high stakes of one of African football’s most prestigious roles. However, the length of his contract remains undisclosed by the NFF.