Former Super Eagles winger and ex-Golden Eaglets coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, has reaffirmed his commitment to returning Heartland FC to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
Speaking exclusively to Sports247, the Heartland coach emphasized that his focus remains on rebuilding the club and restoring its status among Nigeria’s elite sides.
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“We recognize where we are, and we are not shying away from it. What matters is that we are focused and prepared to build a journey that will take us back to elite football,” Amuneke said.
The former Barcelona forward revealed that the team has been working diligently since June in preparation for the new Nigeria National League (NNL) season.
He highlighted the importance of collective effort and gradual improvement, both individually and as a team.
“We know there will be challenges. The road to success is never easy, but we are confident in our process. We have started this journey, and by the time the season begins, we want to be in a position to compete,” he added.
When asked about any mandate from the club’s management or fans, Amuneke stated that his focus is not on mandates but on sustainable progress.
“We are not in a time of mandates. What we want is to do things the right way, one step at a time. It’s not about personal goals; it’s about collective success for Heartland FC and the people of Imo State.”
On player recruitment, the coach explained that Heartland’s focus is not on signing “big-name” players but on building a cohesive and disciplined team capable of achieving consistent results.
“We are not looking to attract big boys; we are looking to build a team. Any player who joins Heartland must be ready to grow and play good football. It’s not just about individual brilliance — it’s about team unity.”
Addressing concerns about player welfare and payments, Amuneke assured that such issues would not distract the team’s preparations. Heartland will not feature on the opening weekend of the NNL but is expected to begin its campaign the following week.
Amuneke, who led Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets to the FIFA U-17 World Cup title ten years ago, also reflected on the nation’s recent struggles at youth level but declined to comment in detail.
“I’m not part of the NFF setup or the national team. It would be unfair to comment on what’s going on there. For now, my focus is on Heartland. I wish the national teams all the best and hope they will do what is right for the future. If they stick to what is right, we will get the desired results,” he concluded.
