“Enyimba’s grandeur won me over”

Head Coach Stanley Eguma has revealed that Enyimba FC’s grandeur and illustrious history made his decision to extend his contract with the nine-time Nigerian champions a straightforward one.

The veteran coach joined the 2-time African champions on a short term deal in December, with the club placed 11 th on the NPFL standings, and guided Enyimba to end the campaign in sixth place, narrowly missing on continental football.

At the end of the season, Eguma received offers from several NPFL sides, but eventually signed a contract extension with the 9-time league champions till 2026.

Speaking to Enyimbafc.net, the gaffer disclosed that Enyimba always had the option of first refusal, adding that his employers were satisfied with his results – which includes three away wins in the NPFL.

“At the end of last season, so many clubs actually came for my services, but Enyimba is the biggest club in Nigeria and when such a club wants you to stay, you just have to say yes. I had a good stint, and the management was happy, though we didn’t pick a continental ticket or win the league, but at least, they were happy with my performance.

“There was a clause in my contract which states that Enyimba will have the first option of negotiation at the end of the season before any other club. That means if they are okay with me and interested in extending the contract, they will have the advantage of negotiating with me before I discuss with any other club.

“So, when those other teams were coming, Enyimba was discussing with me, and at the end of the day, I am happy to stay here because I have already known the terrain and they were happy with me. That was actually what happened, and I am happy with my decision.”

Eguma was assistant to Okey Emordi when Enyimba won the second CAF Champions League crown in 2004.