Finidi George net worth continues to attract attention in 2025, especially after his appointment as the head coach of the Nigeria national football team. Born in Port Harcourt, Rivers State (now Bayelsa State), on April 15, 1971, Finidi George rose from local pitches to global stages.
At 53 years old, he remains one of Nigeria’s most celebrated football personalities, having transitioned from an illustrious playing career into coaching at the highest level.
Finidi George early life and career beginnings
Finidi started his football journey with Nigerian clubs such as Calabar Rovers, Iwuanyanwu Nationale (now Heartland FC), and Sharks. In 1990, he secured a domestic league title with Iwuanyanwu. His international breakthrough came in 1993 when Ajax signed him and Nwankwo Kanu for approximately €4,000. The Dutch side saw immediate returns, as Finidi helped them win the Eredivisie and three consecutive league titles.
Ajax years and European success
Joining Ajax proved to be a defining move. Finidi scored four times in his first Eredivisie season and played in back-to-back UEFA Champions League finals. He was pivotal in Ajax’s 1–0 victory against A.C. Milan in 1995, marking the highlight of his club career.
His time in the Netherlands included victories in the UEFA Super Cup, Intercontinental Cup, and Johan Cruijff Shield.
Real Betis and Spanish football
In July 1996, Real Betis signed Finidi George for €10.4 million. He consistently scored in double figures and helped Betis reach the Copa del Rey final in 1997, although they lost to Barcelona. A potential move to Real Madrid fell through before his Betis transfer.
Even after Betis faced relegation in 2000, he remained in Spain with Mallorca, joining them for €5.4 million before moving to England.
Premier League move and return to Spain
Finidi joined Ipswich Town in 2001 for €4.29 million. He scored two goals in a 3–1 win against Derby County, but Ipswich suffered relegation. The club released him in June 2003. Later that year, Finidi trialed and then signed again for Mallorca, helping the team avoid relegation before retiring in 2004 at 33. Over his club career, he logged 364 matches, scoring 81 goals and providing 33 assists.
International football and Nigeria national team
Debuting for the Super Eagles in 1991, Finidi impressed with three assists and one goal in a 7–1 win over Burkina Faso. He went on to earn 62 caps and score six goals. He was integral in Nigeria’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph and played in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.
His goal against Greece in 1994, paired with a memorable celebration, remains iconic. He featured in multiple AFCON tournaments, collecting one winner’s medal, one runner-up medal, and two third-place finishes.
Style of play and strengths
Finidi George was known for his tall frame, speed, and technical abilities. A right winger, he delivered precise crosses, handled free kicks well, and executed clever dribbles.
His understanding of the game and tactical discipline distinguished him throughout his career. He wore the number 7 shirt for the Super Eagles, a jersey now synonymous with his legacy.
Coaching career
In September 2021, Enyimba F.C. named Finidi George as head coach. He guided the club to the 2022/23 Nigeria Premier League title. Following this achievement, he was promoted from assistant coach to interim coach of the Super Eagles in 2024, leading Nigeria to a rare 2–1 win over Ghana.
On May 13, 2024, he was officially appointed the permanent head coach of Nigeria’s national team.
Finidi George salary and contract terms
Finidi George salary has made him the highest-earning indigenous football coach in Nigerian history. His current contract guarantees him a monthly income of ₦15 million.
The agreement spans one year with an option to extend after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, depending on team performance. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has also agreed to pay his assistant coaches on a match-by-match basis.
Finidi George net worth and earnings
As of May 2025, Finidi George net worth is estimated at $200,000. Most of his wealth comes from his playing days and his coaching roles.
He was one of the few Nigerian players of his time to secure substantial contracts in Europe. His new coaching role, combined with bonus clauses, may significantly increase his net worth in the coming years.
Personal life and family details
Finidi George keeps most of his personal life private. He is married, but his spouse’s identity is undisclosed.
He has a son, who inspired a viral incident involving a jersey request from Pepe. Finidi clarified that the jersey was not for him, but a gift for his son, who admires the Portuguese defender and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Tragedy and family
The meaning of “Finidi” in his local language translates to “a future full of sun.” Finidi is one of twelve siblings.
Two of his brothers, Celestine and Igeniwari, were also involved in football. Sadly, Igeniwari lost his life in a tragic stadium incident during a match.
Properties and residence
While Finidi George net worth and salary are known, details about his properties and house locations are private.
Reports indicate he once sold a property in Port Harcourt’s GRA area to a religious leader. Presently, he resides in Palma, Majorca, Spain.
Coaching record and managerial statistics
During his tenure with Enyimba (2021–2024), he managed 65 games, recording 29 wins, 15 draws, and 21 losses, a win percentage of 44.6%.
His brief time as Super Eagles interim coach includes two games, one draw and one loss. As of July 2024, Finidi George has taken charge at Rivers United FC.
Career titles
National Team
- Africa Cup of Nations: Winner (1994), Runner-up (2000), Third Place (1992, 2002)
Ajax
- Eredivisie: 1993–94, 1994–95, 1995–96
- UEFA Champions League: 1994–95
- UEFA Super Cup: 1995
- Intercontinental Cup: 1995
- Johan Cruyff Shield: 1994, 1995
Real Betis
- Copa del Rey: Runner-up (1996–97)
Enyimba (Coach)
- Nigeria Premier League: 2022–23
Article updated 11 hours ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
