Former Nigeria international Emmanuel Amuneke has been appointed as the new head coach of Heartland Football Club. The announcement was made at the Imo State government house in Owerri on Monday. Amuneke was unveiled by Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, at his office.
Governor Uzodinma highlighted the significance of Amuneke’s appointment, stating, “Amuneke’s remarkable career has made us incredibly proud, and his return to our state in this new role brings a wave of optimism. Heartland FC has faced many challenges in recent seasons, but this appointment marks a renewed commitment to revitalise the club.”
“With Amuneke’s wealth of experience and indigeneship to the state, I am confident that this will be a turning point for Heartland FC, guiding it back to its winning ways and reigniting our collective passion for the team.”
Heartland were relegated from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) during the 2023/2024 season. However, the Naze Millionaires secured a spot in the NPFL for the 2024/2025 season by acquiring the slot of Beyond Limits FC, Lagos.
The 53-year-old’s last managerial stint was with Egyptian club Misr Lel-Makkasa, where he served until February 2021. Amuneke, who retired from international football in 2004, enjoyed a storied career with the Super Eagles, winning the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 1994.
He was also considered a strong candidate to succeed Jose Peseiro as head coach of the Super Eagles. However, the Nigeria Football Federation opted for Finidi George, who resigned after a brief and unsuccessful tenure.
Amuneke, a renowned figure in Nigerian football, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to revitalize the club, which recently suffered relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). With Amuneke at the helm, the club aims to regain its former glory and compete at the highest level of Nigerian football
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