Finidi George was a former player who represented his country at the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup. He made a name for himself in Europe playing for several clubs. After his retirement, he transitioned and became a football coach. Recently, he coached the Nigerian national team but left after two games. Find out more about Finidi George below.
Coaching Career
Finidi George was appointed the head coach of Enyimba who he led to the Nigerian Premier League title. In 2024, he took the coaching role of the Nigerian national football team after holding the assistant role position under Jose Peseiro.
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However, George tendered his resignation after two World Cup qualifying matches, citing that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was bringing in a technical advisor without his knowledge. The decision to bring in a foreign technical advisor came after Nigeria struggled in their games against Benin Republic and South Africa.
Initially, it was believed he would join the technical staff to complete his one-year contract but he left altogether.
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Early Years
Finidi George was born on April 15, 1971, in Port Harcourt Nigeria. His name Finidi means a future full of the sun. He started playing at a young age and caught the eye of football scouts. Finidi had outstanding dribbling, speed and ball-crossing abilities.
He started his career in local clubs, Calabar Rovers, Iwuanyanwu Nationale and Sharks before moving to Europe.
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Ajax Amsterdam
George joined Dutch club Ajax in 1993. The club paid $4000 for his services and he proved to be worth every penny. In his first season, he scored four goals in 27 games and won the Eredivisie title. He added more titles in 1995 and 1996. The Nigerian played in two UEFA Champions League finals winning the 1995 edition. After three years, making 85 appearances and scoring 18 goals, Finidi left the club.
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Real Betis
In 1996, Betis played $6 million for George. He was just as prolific, scoring at least 38 goals in 130 appearances. He played in a Copa Del Rey final against Barcelona and scored a goal despite being on the losing side. Betis view George as one of its best-ever signings who played alongside the likes of Roberto Rios and Juan Merino. As a result, he earned the name “the playful shadows”.
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Mallorca and Ipswich Town
After Betis was relegated from the top flight, George joined Mallorca for a year and then moved to Ipswich Town. Although he scored a couple of goals, his overall performance was abysmal leading to his release. He rejoined Mallorca and helped them stay on the top flight. After the season was over, Finidi retired.
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Nigerian National Team
Finidi George made 62 appearances for the Super Falcons of Nigeria. He debuted at the 1991 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. He was part of the team that won the AFCON in Tunisia. In 1994 and 1998, George played in the FIFA World Cup. He retired from international football afterwards.
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Finidi George’s Net Worth
The 53-year-old has an estimated net worth of $200,000. He made most of his money playing in Europe and continues to earn through his coaching career.
Finidi George was an outstanding player during his time with the Nigerian national team. He proved to be a top player in Europe and won numerous awards like Eredivise, Johan Cruijff Shield, the Champions League, the Super Cup and the Intercontinental Cup.
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