Shola Adegun is emerging as the frontrunner to succeed Manu Garba as head coach of Nigeria’s under‑17 men’s national team, the Golden Eaglets, according to DAILY POST. The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has yet to confirm the appointment, but Adegun’s name has been consistently mentioned in discussions surrounding the vacancy.
Garba’s tenure ended after the Golden Eaglets failed to secure a place in the 2026 Africa U‑17 Cup of Nations, prompting the federation to look for a fresh direction. Adegun, one of the youngest coaches currently active in the domestic circuit, is being considered for the role.
Adegun’s coaching résumé began with Sporting Lagos, a newly promoted side in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). At Sporting Lagos he gained his first senior‑level experience, guiding a fledgling club through the challenges of top‑flight competition. He later served as head coach of Plateau United during the first half of the 2023‑24 NPFL season before his contract was terminated as the Jos‑based club struggled near the relegation zone.
Beyond senior club duties, Adegun has built a reputation for youth development. He has worked with several prominent academies, including Clique Academy, Barcelona Academy Nigeria, and AS Roma Academy Nigeria. His involvement with these programs has given him exposure to modern training methodologies and a network of emerging talent across the country.
If appointed, Adegun would become one of the youngest coaches to lead a national side at any level in Nigeria. The move would also mark a shift toward a development‑centric approach, emphasizing the identification and nurturing of players for future senior‑team contributions. The NFF has indicated that the new coach will be expected to rebuild the Golden Eaglets’ competitive edge and ensure qualification for upcoming continental tournaments.
The federation is expected to announce its decision in the coming weeks, ahead of the next cycle of U‑17 competitions. Adegun’s potential appointment underscores the NFF’s broader strategy of integrating youthful coaching talent into its national program, aiming to revitalize the pipeline that has historically produced world‑class Nigerian footballers.
