Super Eagles of Nigeria defender, William Troost-Ekong has shared his respect for Finidi George, the newly appointed head coach of the team.
In a recent interview per Soccernet, William Troost-Ekong spoke highly of Finidi, who was chosen as the permanent coach after serving as the interim coach following Jose Peseiro’s departure.
He expressed admiration for Finidi’s humble disposition and legendary status in African and Nigerian football, especially considering his achievements with Ajax in the Netherlands and Real Betis in Spain.
Reflecting on his time under Peseiro and the transition to George, Troost-Ekong hailed Finidi’s remarkable career and influence, particularly his success at Ajax where he helped secure the Eredivisie title and his notable performances in Spain, including the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona.
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“George Finidi is someone who is a legend. In African football, and Nigerian football, even here in Greece, whenever ex-Nigerian players are mentioned, Finidi’s name always comes up. Especially growing up in Holland, just outside Amsterdam, for someone who played so much for Ajax and achieved so much there, he’s someone I look up to and feel very connected to,” Troost-Ekong said.
Troost-Ekong also commended Finidi’s humility despite his impressive track record, highlighting his recent achievement with Enyimba in winning the league. He expressed happiness for Finidi’s appointment as the head coach, describing him as a “great guy.”
“He is always very humble, too humble for what he has achieved. Everyone recognizes the work he did for Enyimba last year when he won the league. So, for him to now get the chance to be the interim head coach [now the full-time head coach], I am very happy to see that. He’s a great guy,” Troost-Ekong added.
The Super Eagles are preparing for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.
William Troost-Ekong, who is recovering from a successful surgery following an injury at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, is eager to return to action for Nigeria.
