Enyimba FC has opened contract talks with Coach Stanley Eguma ahead of the 2025/2026 NPFL season after his impressive short-term spell at the club.
The former Rivers United boss led the team to a sixth-place finish and could soon sign a long-term deal as talks continue.
Nigeria’s most successful football club, Enyimba FC, has opened fresh contract negotiations with Coach Stanley Eguma as preparations begin for the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
Eguma, a seasoned tactician and former Rivers United manager, joined Enyimba on a short-term basis midway through the 2024/2025 season. He replaced 33-year-old Yemi Olanrewaju, who was relieved of his duties following a string of unimpressive results.
During his brief stint, Eguma managed to steady the ship, guiding the nine-time NPFL champions to a respectable sixth-place finish with 55 points, including three vital away victories that revitalized the team’s campaign.
Proven track record
Eguma’s coaching credentials are well-established in Nigerian football. Notably, he served as assistant coach during Enyimba’s historic 2004 CAF Champions League triumph, further cementing his status as a trusted figure at the club.
Impressed by his performance, the club’s management initiated a meeting on Friday, June 6, 2025, to explore a long-term engagement with the veteran coach. However, sources reveal that the talks are still ongoing, with both parties yet to reach an agreement on the duration and specific terms of the new deal.
Talks ongoing, no deal yet
An insider privy to the meeting told reporters, “It was like a marathon meeting. Eguma submitted his personal demands, which Enyimba want time to study carefully. As of now, the duration of the contract remains a sticking point.”
The source added that negotiations will continue in the coming days as both sides work toward finding common ground.
Looking ahead
With the new NPFL season fast approaching, Enyimba is eager to finalise its coaching plans early to ensure a smooth pre-season build-up. The club’s recent struggles in league performance and continental campaigns have added pressure on the management to restore the People’s Elephant to its former glory.
Eguma’s return could bring much-needed stability and experience to the Aba-based club, especially as they look to rebuild a squad capable of challenging for the title and returning to continental football.
Fan expectations high
Supporters of the club are hopeful that a new contract for Eguma could mark the beginning of a successful era. Many believe that with adequate support and time, he could guide the club to another league title and rekindle their dominance in African competitions.
For now, all eyes remain on the negotiation table as Enyimba FC seeks to chart a new course under the experienced leadership of Stanley Eguma.
