John Utaka Eyes Super Eagles Coaching Role

Former Nigerian international John Utaka has thrown his hat into the ring for the Super Eagles coaching job, signalling his readiness to guide the national team with the same determination he showed during his playing days.

Utaka, now 43, is no stranger to success on the pitch. From lifting the French Ligue 1 title with Montpellier to winning the English FA Cup with Portsmouth and the Arab Cup with Al Sadd, his career is decorated with achievements across several countries.

Born in Enugu, the forward began his professional journey with Enugu Rangers before moving to Egypt, where he became a fan favourite at Ismaily after scoring an impressive 30 goals in just 42 appearances. 

His exploits earned him a call-up to the Nigerian national team in 2001, making his debut against Namibia and later featuring in the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Utaka’s standout moment for the Super Eagles came at the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations, where he netted twice and provided an assist to help Nigeria secure a bronze medal. 

Over the years, he played in top leagues across Nigeria, Egypt, Qatar, France, England, and Turkey, experiences that have now shaped his coaching philosophy.

Currently managing the ASPTT Montpellier women’s team in France, Utaka’s coaching credentials have been steadily growing. 

His first stint with the club’s women’s side in 2021 led to a solid sixth-place finish, and his official appointment has been marked by a mix of tactical intelligence and a player-focused approach. Now, he says he is ready to bring that same expertise home.

“If the NFF call me, I’ll be glad to come,” Utaka told Brila FM. “The job is to coach the players to maximum potential.”