Former Super Eagles winger John Utaka has expressed his interest in becoming the head coach of Nigeria’s U-20 national football team.
“I have applied for the under-20 job, and it’s something I would like to do if given the chance,” the 42-year-old told Brilla FM in Lagos.
Following Ladan Bosso’s departure from the Flying Eagles, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), declared the team’s managerial position open to Nigerian coaches on Thursday, July 29.
With the vacancy set to close on Sunday, August 4, Utaka said his interest in the role stems from past experiences in flying Nigeria’s colours.
“I think it would be good because, as a player, I knew what it took to play for the country, which is something the youth need to understand,” he said.
“When you play for Nigeria, you play with your heart.”Utaka played for Nigeria between 2001 and 2012, scoring six goals across 49 appearances.
His club career took root in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with Enugu Rangers, before moving to Arab Contractors in Egypt.
The pacy winger subsequently represented 11 other clubs across two continents and is currently the youth coach at French side Montpellier HSC. He has held the position since 2020.
Utaka obtained his UEFA A license in 2022 and is now working towards earning his UEFA Pro badge.
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