Former Nigeria international midfielder Sani Kaita has officially applied for the position of head coach of the Golden Eaglets following the Nigeria Football Federation’s call for applications to fill coaching vacancies across several national youth teams.
Per BSN Sports, Sani Kaita who is currently based in the United Kingdom, confirmed his interest in leading Nigeria’s Under 17 side and expressed confidence in his ability to build a competitive and disciplined team. He believes his experience as a player at the highest level and his recent work in youth development have prepared him for the responsibility.
“I can confirm that I have applied for the U-17 coaching job. It is time for me to share my expertise and develop our youth players within a positive, high-performance environment,” he said.
The 38 year old enjoyed a professional playing career in Europe, featuring for clubs such as Sparta Rotterdam and AS Monaco, as well as teams in Russia and Greece. He also represented Nigeria on the international stage, including at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Since retiring from active football, Kaita has focused on coaching and youth development. He holds a UEFA B License issued by the Football Association of Wales and is currently working with Hellenic FC in the United Kingdom, where he continues to develop his coaching philosophy and work closely with young players.
A silver medallist at the 2005 FIFA U 20 World Cup and the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Kaita said his transition into coaching has been deliberate and centred on nurturing emerging talent.
“I have spent the last few years working specifically with young players, focusing on player development and success,” he added. “I am confident in my ability and promise to assemble a team that Nigerians will be proud of.”
The Golden Eaglets are seeking a fresh direction after a disappointing campaign in 2025, when the five time FIFA U 17 World Cup winners failed to qualify for the CAF U 17 Africa Cup of Nations for the first time since 2017. Their absence from the continental tournament also meant missing out on the FIFA U 17 World Cup in Qatar later that year.
Kaita’s application now places him among the candidates hoping to lead Nigeria’s next generation of young talents as the federation prepares for a new cycle of youth competitions.
