Exclusive: “Enyimba's Problem is Football-Related, Not Administrative”, New Coach Stanley Eguma Backs Chairman Nwankwo Kanu

When Nwankwo Kanu took over as Chairman of Enyimba in 2023, hopes were high that the former Arsenal and Nigerian forward would usher in a new era of success for the club. However, the reality has been far from expectations.

Kanu succeeded Felix Anyansi-Agwu, a revered figure who led Enyimba for 24 years, during which the club won two CAF Champions League titles and numerous domestic trophies.

Under Kanu’s leadership, Enyimba has struggled, prompting questions about his ability to steer the club in the right direction.

The dismissal of Head Coach Yemi Olarenwaju amid a nine-match winless run has not eased tensions. Many fans believe Olarenwaju was unfairly scapegoated for the club’s struggles, blaming Kanu for poor recruitment and questionable managerial appointments.

Eguma Backs Kanu and the Management Team

Stanley Eguma, the newly appointed Head Coach, has thrown his support behind Kanu, attributing Enyimba’s current challenges to football-related issues rather than administrative shortcomings.

Speaking to SportsBoom.com, Eguma praised the club’s management team, which includes legendary figures like Kanu Nwankwo, Uche Okechukwu, and Director of Football Ifeanyi Ekwueme.

“It’s a privilege to work alongside legends like Nwankwo (Kanu), who played at the highest level. These are true football minds who understand what it takes to succeed. The problems we are facing are purely football-related, and I’m confident we’ll turn things around soon,” Eguma explained.

The new coach emphasized the expertise within the leadership structure, dismissing claims that the club’s issues stem from poor administration.

A Season in Turmoil

Enyimba’s current form has been alarming. The team is winless in their last nine matches across all competitions, a run that has seen them slip to 11th place in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) standings, albeit with four games in hand.

In the CAF Confederation Cup, the situation is even more dire. Enyimba sits at the bottom of their group after three matches, having suffered two defeats—including a humiliating 3-0 loss to Ghana’s Black Bulls—and managing only one draw.

These results have left the club on the brink of an early exit from the competition, a far cry from the dominance fans have come to expect from the Aba Elephants.

Eguma’s Plan for Revival

Eguma, a seasoned coach with a proven track record, has vowed to restore Enyimba’s fortunes. His immediate focus is to stabilize the team and instill a winning mentality.

“Enyimba is the biggest club in Nigeria, and the fans expect nothing less than consistent victories. The challenge is tough, but I am prepared to face it head-on,” Eguma said.

Despite the current struggles, Eguma remains optimistic about the season’s prospects. “The season is far from over. There are many matches left to play, and we still have crucial points to fight for. Winning the league or securing continental qualification is still achievable if we stay focused,” he added.

While Eguma acknowledged the need for reinforcements during the next transfer window, he also challenged the current squad to prove their worth.

“The players need to understand the immense responsibility that comes with representing a club like Enyimba. However, I will evaluate the squad and address areas that need strengthening when the time comes,” he stated.

A Proven Track Record of Success

Eguma’s appointment brings a wealth of experience to Enyimba. Before joining the club, he was the longest-serving coach in the Nigeria Premier Football League, managing Rivers United and its predecessor, Dolphins FC, for over a decade.

During his tenure, Eguma led Rivers United to the NPFL title in 2021 and a second-place finish in 2016. He also guided the team to multiple campaigns in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup.

In addition, Eguma was part of the technical team that steered Enyimba to back-to-back CAF Champions League titles in 2003 and 2004. His familiarity with the club’s culture and expectations could prove invaluable in navigating this difficult period.

Immediate Challenges Await

Eguma’s second stint with Enyimba begins with a home game against Bendel Insurance in the NPFL. Five days later, the team will host Ghana’s Black Bulls in a must-win CAF Confederation Cup fixture at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

The pressure to deliver immediate results is immense, but Eguma is confident in his ability to rise to the occasion. “There are issues that need addressing, which is why I’m here. I bring experience, exposure, and technical expertise necessary to deliver results,” Eguma concluded.

Looking Ahead

Enyimba’s recent struggles have tested the patience of fans and stakeholders alike. However, with Stanley Eguma at the helm, the club has a chance to turn its fortunes around.

His experience, coupled with the expertise of the club’s leadership, offers hope that Enyimba can reclaim its position as a powerhouse in Nigerian and African football.

The coming weeks will be crucial as Eguma looks to steady the ship and lead Enyimba back to winning ways. Fans will be watching closely, hoping that the storied club can rise above its current challenges and restore its legacy of success.