Two-time Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) winning coach Fidelis Ilechukwu could be on his way out of Rangers International, with several top Northern clubs reportedly monitoring his contract situation closely.
According to a source close to the gaffer, at least three NPFL clubs are actively pursuing the coach after his deal with the Flying Antelopes expired following their 2024/25 title triumph. The interest comes as no surprise given Ilechukwu’s record of delivering silverware in a short space of time.
Fidelis Ilechukwu cemented his reputation as one of the league’s most sought-after managers after guiding Rangers to their ninth NPFL title on Sunday with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Ikorodu City at the Onikan Stadium in Lagos. The victory sealed a second league crown for the Enugu side in three years under his leadership, sparking wild celebrations from the coach and fans alike.
The Rangers boss ended an eight-year wait for league glory in 2024, clinching the 2023/24 NPFL title with a game to spare after a 2-0 win over Bendel Insurance at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu. That triumph marked his first title with the Flying Antelopes and his second overall in the division.
Before his success in Enugu, Fidelis Ilechukwu had twice finished as runner-up in the NPFL with MFM FC in 2017 and Plateau United in 2022. His consistent ability to build competitive sides has made him one of the most respected tacticians in Nigerian football.
The 48-year-old is currently with the Super Eagles as an assistant coach, having joined the national team setup in London for the ongoing Unity Cup. His dual role has only increased his profile, with many seeing him as a coach ready for the next step in his career.
With his contract at Rangers now expired and Northern clubs circling, Ilechukwu’s next move is one of the biggest storylines heading into the NPFL off-season.
