Emmanuel Amunike: Why I was not appointed Super Eagles coach
Emmanuel Amunike has reacted to missing the Nigeria Super Eagles Job following the appointment of Finidi George on Monday by the Nigeria Football Federstion (NFF).
Amunike has expressed his disappointment with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for appointing Finidi George instead of him.
Amunike, who was widely considered a favorite for the role, believes that personal animosity towards him from certain football officials influenced the decision to overlook him for the position. He expressed his frustration with the smear campaign against him in the media regarding the Eagles job, attributing it to the agenda of those who wanted to discredit him.
Despite his extensive coaching experience, including leading Nigeria’s Under-17 team to a FIFA U17 World Cup victory and coaching various clubs internationally, including in Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and Egypt, the NFF opted for Finidi George.
The NFF cited the need for continuity, as Finidi had previously served as Jose Peseiro’s assistant, as the reason for their decision. However, Amuneke believes that his credentials should have made him the preferred choice for the position.
According to reports from the Punch, Amuneke said, “They succeeded in smearing my name in the media because of the Eagles job.
“They can continue with their propaganda, but I will remain disciplined. It’s not do-or-die job. All those allegations made in the media online because of the Eagles’ job are obviously not true, but those who recommended candidates for the job know I will not be easily bullied. I know there is still bad blood with these officials, but it’s fine.”
The decision has left Amuneke feeling sidelined and disheartened, but he remains determined to maintain his integrity and discipline in the face of what he perceives as unfair treatment.
