Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George ready for return after showing ex-club what they are missing

Finidi George returned to the NPFL after a short spell with the Super Eagles. || X

Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George ready for return after showing ex-club what they are missing

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 15:45 - 04.09.2024

The ex-Super Eagles coach Finidi George faced his former employer Enyimba in a preseason friendly.

Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George has expressed his satisfaction with Rivers United's performance following their pre-season victory over his former club, Enyimba. 

The match, decided by a late goal, saw Finidi's team emerge victorious as they prepare for the upcoming 2024/25 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.

Focusing on Tempo and Intensity

In his post-match comments, Finidi emphasised that he was primarily focused on the tempo and intensity displayed by his players throughout the 90 minutes. 

"For me, I was looking at the tempo of the game, I was quite impressed," he said in a video posted on TikTok by NPFL guru Fisayo Dairo. "The players played with that same intensity for 90 minutes."

Rivers United new manager Finidi George.

While pleased with the overall performance, Finidi acknowledged that there were still some areas that needed refinement. 

"I think we (Rivers United) are ready physically," he stated. "There are some things that we saw that - little stuff that we have to be better at and we would be good to go against Bendel Insurance."

Rivers United celebrate in style. (Photo Credit: Value Jet Cup/X)

Finidi's delight in securing the win against his former team was palpable. "Quite happy (with the win against Enyimba)," he added. "Every victory is a joy for a team and as a manager, it is also fantastic."

Looking ahead to the NPFL return

With the pre-season match against Enyimba now in the rearview mirror, Finidi George and his Rivers United team will turn their attention to their upcoming NPFL season opener against Bendel Insurance.

Former Super Eagles boss Finidi George will return to the NPFL after a short time off.

This pre-season match marks Finidi's return to the NPFL just months after a brief stint as the head coach of the Nigeria national team. 

Finidi shockingly resigned as the Super Eagles boss after a poor start to life that saw him pick just one point from six in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Finidi George led Enyimba to their 9th NPFL title two seasons ago but left for bigger things. | Facebook

Forced to leave his position, the Nigerian legend will be looking to use his experience and tactical acumen to guide Rivers United to a successful campaign in the upcoming season.

All eyes will be on Finidi George and his Rivers United squad as they seek to capitalise on the positive momentum gained from their preparations so far.