Confirmed: Ex-Portsmouth star eyes Flying Eagles coaching role as Ladan Bosso’s tenure ends

Ladan Bosso led the Flying Eagles of Nigeria to their sixth Bronze medal at the Africa Cup of Nations youth tourney in 2023

Former Nigeria international John Utaka has expressed his interest in becoming the head coach of the Nigeria U-20 men’s football team, as reported by Soccernet.ng.

This development follows the official conclusion of Ladan Bosso’s tenure, with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announcing the position as vacant and open for applications.

Utaka, who earned 49 caps for the Super Eagles, has confirmed his interest in the role formerly held by Bosso, now the manager of Bayelsa United.

The former Portsmouth star is eager to bring his wealth of experience and expertise to the young Nigerian squad, aiming to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.

Throughout his illustrious playing career, the 42-year-old Utaka featured for 13 different clubs across three continents. Since retiring, he has transitioned into a coaching role in France.

In a previous conversation with Soccernet.ng’s managing editor, Lolade Adewuyi, Utaka shared his aspiration to contribute to Nigerian football through coaching.

“If the opportunity comes to coach Nigeria in the near future, that is something I would love to embrace as well because that is another way to give back and share your experience with your own country,” Utaka stated.

Securing the U-20 coaching position would draw a notable step in Utaka’s dream of giving back to his country. Fans are hopeful that under his guidance, the Nigeria U-20 team will reach new heights.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories. Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work. With a Bachelor's degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master's Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.

Share
Published by
Ayomide Oguntimehin

Recent Posts

NPFL: Shooting Stars end ugly 20-year record against Rangers as Remo Stars, Abia Warriors record big wins

Matchday 18 games of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) were played across the country… Read More

9 minutes ago

What Tolu Arokodare said after helping Genk set a new club record with dominant win over Anderlecht

Tolu Arokodare has expressed his delight at being part of history-making at KRC Genk after… Read More

1 hour ago

Why PSG will not sign Victor Osimhen

French Ligue 1 champions PSG may decide against signing Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen, as… Read More

2 hours ago

Osimhen: Napoli star drops transfer hint as Man United and Chelsea prepare €75 million bid

Napoli-owned forward Victor Osimhen has sparked transfer speculation with a new comment about his future,… Read More

14 hours ago

Ghana 0-0 Nigeria: CHAN Eagles grab first-leg advantage in Accra against Black Galaxies

Nigeria forced Ghana to a goalless draw in the first leg of the qualifying playoff… Read More

15 hours ago

What Hakimi’s mother said after her son lost the CAF POTY Award to Lookman

Achraf Hakimi's mother, Saida Mouh, has revealed her son has moved on from the disappointment… Read More

15 hours ago