Exclusive: Selfless Amuneke standing strong with friend Finidi despite losing out on Super Eagles job

Amuneke proud despite setback

Although the antecedents of the 53-year-old's coaching career were not enough to earn him the Super Eagles job in 2024, he was quick to express that he is proud of what he has achieved so far in his coaching career.

In 2015, Amuneke who was at the time coaching the likes of Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze at youth level, led Nigeria's under-17 team to a record fifth FIFA U-17 World Cup title in Chile.

Four years down the line, he was with the Tanzanian national team, helping them to qualify for their first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in 39 years.

"I have not done bad as a coach. I started at club level as an assistant and then the national [youth] team where myself and the Nduka Ugbade-led crew, achieved that World Cup in 2013. And in 2015 I was the chief coach, we achieved that again, we were able to defend the tournament," Amuneke said glowingly of himself.

"My biggest desire is to do what I love. As a player, I loved to play at the big clubs and I was privileged to have done that. As a coach, I wish to be at the big stages - which I have done too with Tanzania.

"I am never afraid to take challenges and that is why I can go to other people's countries to try to do something. I have been able to do the best I can. Learning never stops, it only stops the day you die."

Ambitious Amuneke always ready to add value

But while Amuneke continues to state that his focus right now is his family, as Nigeria resumes its World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic, he also hinted that he is a true patriot who is 'ready to add value' if required, and if he considers the objectives 'right.