John Utaka: French Club Appoint Former Super Eagles Forward As Women’s Team Coach

• John Utaka has been appointed head coach of ASPTT Montpellier women's team in France, as he returns to the city where he won the Ligue 1 title in 2011–12
• The former Nigerian international, who has bagged a UEFA A licence, had led the women’s team to a sixth-place finish in 2021 on an interim basis
• His tactical expertise and international experience across multiple countries are expected to build a formidable squad

Former Super Eagles striker John Utaka has been appointed head coach of the ASPTT Montpellier women's team.

The 43-year-old Nigerian star, who won the Ligue 1 title with Montpellier during the 2011–2012 season, returns to the city where he became a fan favourite.

Residents have continued to remember his heroics, especially his brace in the decisive 2-1 victory over Auxerre during his time at Monpellier.

Since retiring in 2018, Utaka has turned to coaching, and he served as assistant coach for Montpellier’s U19 team before earning his UEFA A license in 2022.

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He was temporarily appointed to take charge of the club's women’s team in 2021, and that resulted in a solid sixth-place finish, showcasing his readiness for the permanent role.

Now he has been officially appointed as he brings a blend of tactical acumen and a player-centric approach.

His reign will be shaped by his diverse playing career, having had stints in Nigeria, Egypt, Qatar, France, England, and Turkey, per All Nigeria Soccer.

As one of the few African coaches in European women’s football, his global perspective is a unique asset.

Montpellier fans are excited about his appointment and are eager to see his dynamic, attacking style as a player translate into Montpellier’s play, per Daily Post.

Utaka eyes ASPTT promotion

Utaka will now lead the squad toward playoff contention while fostering growth and ambition. He said in a viral audio:

"Ihis is John Utaka, the newly appointed coach of the ASPTT Women's team in Montpellier. It's a team that is based in the region of Montpellier. It's an amateur regional one team.

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"Our objective is to be able to compete on a national level. So, that's our objective - to be able to play with the likes of Monaco and PSG reserve teams after our promotion next season."

Meanwhile, famous Nigerian journalist Babatunde Ojora of OJB Sports has disclosed that Utaka's appointment in France is a welcome development. He told Legit.ng:

"This is a welcome development for John Chukwudi Utaka, and when you consider the fact that he has been around the coaching crew of Montpellier's U19 team, from being their attacker's coach to now becoming ASPTT Monpellier's Women's team.

"We've seen the likes of Herve Renard go ahead to coach from the men's team to the women's team. It gives you a better understanding of the game.

"This is a legend who has seen it all, played to the highest level, won the Ligue with Montpellier... I'm sure it will also influence the game from the sidelines. It is a good test for him, and hopefully, we'll see the team get promoted to the first division."

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When Chelsea appointed Olofinjana

Legit.ng earlier reported that English club Chelsea appointed former Wolves midfielder, Seyi Olofinjana, to a talent identification role for Africa.

The retired Super Eagles player was recruited to oversee the club's operations in Africa.

Source: Legit.ng