Ex-Nigeria international and FIFA U-17 World Cup-winning coach, Emmanuel Amunike has been officially unveiled as the new head coach of Heartland FC for the 2024/25 season.
The unveiling took place at the new executive chamber of the Government House in Owerri, presided over by the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma. Amunike’s appointment follows his previous role as a consultant for the club and his involvement in overseeing Heartland’s open screening last month. Before this role, Amunike was a contender for the Super Eagles coaching position, which was ultimately awarded to Finidi George, the new coach of Rivers United.
The specifics of Amunike’s contract remain undisclosed, and Heartland’s participation in the NPFL next season is uncertain due to their relegation last season. There have been talks about acquiring a slot from the newly promoted club Beyond Limits, but Imo State officials have downplayed these rumors.
Heartland experienced relegation to the Nigeria National League (NNL) for the third time after a 4-1 defeat against Remo Stars in a match-day 36 game in Ikenne last June. This marked their return to the second tier just a season after being promoted to the top flight. The team faced significant struggles last season, including a managerial crisis that saw current Sunshine Stars coach Kennedy Boboye manage the team for six games in November 2023 before Governor Uzodinma reinstated former coach Christian Obi.
Heartland, established in 1985 as Spartans FC and later renamed Iwuanyanwu Nationale from 1985 to 2006, boasts a rich history with four consecutive NPFL titles from 1987 to 1990. They also reached the finals of the 1988 African Cup of Champions Clubs and the 2009 CAF Champions League.
