July 03, (THEWILL) – Rivers United FC, the 2022 Nigeria Premier Football League champions, have refuted claims linking former Enyimba and ex-Super Eagles coach, Finidi George, as well as ex-Rangers coach, Imama Amapakabo, to the club’s managerial position. The Port Harcourt-based team’s media officer, Charles Mayuku, dismissed these reports as “baseless” amidst a flurry of speculation surrounding the club’s future.
Following the departure of long-serving coach Stanley Eguma last season, Rivers United were led by interim head coach Evans Ogenyi. However, recent rumours suggested that either George or Amapakabo might take the helm. Mayuku addressed these claims, stating: “We have heard of Finidi George, we have heard of Imama Amapakabo, in fact, we will soon hear of Jose Mourinho. Those are just rumours.”
The club also clarified its stance on player transfers. Mayuku confirmed that midfielder Augustine Okejepha’s move to Tanzanian giants Simba SC was the only completed transfer. He dispelled rumours about Deputy Echeta’s exit, emphasising that the player remains under contract with Rivers United.
Addressing further transfer speculation, Mayuku refuted claims that the club had rejected a $150,000 offer for Andy Okpe. He explained: “Why are we going to reject that kind of money? It’s normal for players to want to leave, but the process has to be followed for players like Deputy. He still has a contract, so he can’t just jump ship to any club unless Rivers United decide to sell.”
Ahead of the 2024/2025 season, Rivers United are focusing on their preparations. Mayuku announced that the team will resume training on Wednesday, signalling their readiness for the upcoming campaign.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
