Former Super Eagles head coach Finidi George has explained his decision to join Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Rivers United.

The 53-year-old was appointed the new head coach of Rivers United earlier this month, marking his swift return to the NPFL dugout after leaving Enyimba for the Super Eagles job in late April.

Finidi stepped down from his role after just two games in charge, following Nigeria's poor performance in the World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.

The Super Eagles drew 1-1 against Bafana Bafana in Uyo and lost 2-1 to Benin in Abidjan, leaving Nigerians facing the prospect of another failed World Cup campaign with just three points from four games.

Speaking ahead of the new season, the former Real Betis forward disclosed that the club's vision aligns with his own ambitions, and he wants to help position Rivers United among the top clubs in Nigeria.

“I think it’s a new chapter for me, and I like the challenge. I want to help the club grow and become a dominant force in Nigerian and African football,” Finidi told SportsBoom in an exclusive interview.

“I’m happy with the project the club is pursuing, and I see a lot of potential for growth and success. The vision of the club aligns with my own ambitions, and I believe we can achieve great things together. I’m excited about the project ahead.”

Finidi previously won the NPFL title with Enyimba FC in the 2022/2023 season.