Pride of Rivers not interested in signing Finidi for now, says Mgt

Posted : 02 July 2024

Nigeria's Premier Football League side, Rivers United, clarified the coaching situation at the club on Tuesday, dismissing reports linking former Enyimba and Super Eagles coach Finidi George, as well as ex-Rangers coach Imama Amapakabo, to the team.

Earlier in the 2023/2024 season, the Pride of Rivers parted ways with their longest-serving coach, Stanley Eguma, and subsequently appointed his assistant, Evans Ogenyi, to lead the team until the season's end.

However, with the head coach position still vacant, rumors have circulated regarding Finidi and Amapakabo potentially taking charge at the Port Harcourt-based club. The team's media officer, Charles Mayuku, described these reports as "baseless."

"We've heard about Finidi George, we've heard about Imama Amapakabo, and in fact, soon we'll hear about Jose Mourinho. Those are just rumors, and in fact, we're resuming training ahead of next season on Wednesday," Mayuku stated.

Mayuku also confirmed that midfielder Augustine Okejepha's transfer to Tanzanian giants Simba SC was the only completed deal by the club. Regarding Deputy Echeta, whose departure has been rumored, Mayuku clarified that he remains under contract.

"It was similar to when they said we rejected $150,000 for Andy Okpe. Why would we reject that kind of money? It's normal for players to want to leave, but the process must be followed for players like Deputy. He still has a contract, so he can't just move to another club unless Rivers United decides to sell," Mayuku emphasized.

"At the moment, we have 13 players whose contracts have expired, including Nyima Nwagua, Kazie Enyinnaya, Victor Sochima, Abiodun Akande, and negotiations are underway with them ahead of our resumption on Wednesday. We have retained 24 players, including five promoted from our U-17 side."

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Sochima, whose contract expired, confirmed his departure from the club on Monday after three years of service.

"I needed wings to fly, and you provided them. It was a splendid time in the blue and white colors, restoring the club's history with a trophy and representing the country on the continent. I will cherish every moment. Thank you, Rivers United," Sochima posted on X.

Rivers United participated in the CAF Confederation Cup last season but were unable to progress beyond the quarter-final stage. The Pride of Rivers also finished eighth in the NPFL with 53 points.

Pride of Rivers not interested in signing Finidi for now, says Mgt

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