Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George has explained why he took the Rivers United job just days after stepping down as Nigeria's head coach, Soccernet.ng reports.
Finidi, who had been the assistant coach under Jose Peseiro, was promoted to head coach when Peseiro left.
However, his tenure started poorly, with the Super Eagles drawing against South Africa and losing to the Benin Republic in World Cup qualifiers.
Following these setbacks, Finidi resigned after learning that the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) planned to demote him and bring in a foreign technical adviser.
Soon after his resignation, Finidi was appointed head coach of Rivers United.
He explained that he accepted the job because he was approached by the club, which he considers one of the biggest in Nigeria and West Africa.
“I think it’s a new chapter for me, and I like the challenge. I want to help the club grow and become a dominant force in Nigerian and African football,” Finidi told SportsBoom in an exclusive interview.
“I’m happy with the project the club is looking at, and I see a lot of potential for growth and success. The vision of the club aligns with my own ambitions, and I believe we can achieve great things together. I’m excited about the project ahead.”
Finidi also revealed that Rivers United has been active in recruiting new players ahead of the 2024/2025 season.
The Port-Harcourt-based club has signed about 10 players and, with no continental competitions this season, their main focus is securing a top-three finish in the league.
Finidi won the NPFL title during his three-year stay at Enyimba International FC.
