Nigeria National League (NNL) side Edel FC have named former Rangers International captain Phinan Ozonweke as their new head coach ahead of the second stanza of the 2025/26 season. The club confirmed the appointment as they prepare for the resumption of league action.
Ozonweke succeeds Fasojaye Tajudeen, who left the Awka-based club by mutual consent, with the management expressing confidence in the former player’s ability to lead the team forward.
Phinan Ozonweke, once captain of Rangers International during his playing days, has officially taken over first-team duties at Edel FC as the club looks to improve its fortunes in Conference B of the Nigeria National League.
The club’s team manager, Micky Chukwuebuka, confirmed Ozonweke’s arrival and said the squad is being assessed in readiness for stronger performances when NPFL-feeder competition action resumes.
Chukwuebuka revealed that the coaching staff and recruitment team are reviewing players ahead of the second stanza to identify reinforcements. The aim is to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The evaluation process was expected to conclude within days, with the club management optimistic of a positive campaign under their new coach’s guidance.
Editorial
The appointment of Phinan Ozonweke at Edel FC signals a strategic shift for the club as it seeks stability and performance improvement in the challenging environment of the NNL. Bringing in a former Rangers International captain underscores the club’s desire to instil leadership and experience at the helm during a crucial phase of the season.
For Nigerian football, Ozonweke’s transition from notable playing career to coaching highlights the growing trend of former domestic stars moving into technical roles. This not only strengthens the coaching pool in Nigeria’s lower leagues but also provides role models for young players and coaches hoping to progress their careers within the country’s football pyramid.
If Edel FC can leverage Ozonweke’s leadership and tactical nous to climb the NNL standings, it will reinforce the value of appointing experienced former players in coaching roles. The next few months will be pivotal as the team aims to build momentum under its new coach.
Did You Know?
- Phinan Ozonweke captained Rangers International during his playing career before moving into coaching.
- Edel FC compete in Conference B of the Nigeria National League (NNL), the second tier of Nigeria’s league system.
- The NNL second stanza kicks off after a short break in the 2025/26 season.
- Ozonweke replaces Fasojaye Tajudeen, who left the club by mutual consent.
- Edel FC management are reviewing squad options to strengthen for the promotion push under the new coach.
