Former Kwara United FC head coach, Tunde Sanni, has been appointed as the new manager of Jeunesse Sportive de Pobè FC, marking his return to the technical area barely five months after leaving his last role in Nigeria.
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The 62-year-old tactician has signed a deal to lead the Benin Republic side until the end of the current season.
JS Pobè are presently 14th on the 18-team league table, with the club hoping Sanni’s experience will help stabilise their campaign and push them away from the lower reaches.
Sanni, a Kwara State native, rose to prominence during his most recent spell with Kwara United, where he guided the club to a historic triumph in the President’s Federation Cup in Lagos.
The success marked Kwara United’s first major silverware in 49 years and remains one of the highlights of his coaching career.
From Ilorin to the Touchline
Sanni’s football journey began over four decades ago in Ilorin, where he played for Super Pioneers and Water Corporation before moving on to Shooting Stars in Ibadan.
His playing career also included spells with IBL FC Ilesha, First Bank FC Lagos, NEPA Lagos and Kwara Bombers, where he spent seven seasons before retiring.
He represented Nigeria at the World University Games in 1987 and 1993, experiences that provided early exposure to international football.
After hanging up his boots, Sanni pursued formal coaching education, studying Physical and Health Education at Obafemi Awolowo University and earning a Higher Diploma in Coaching from the National Institute for Sports. He also holds a CAF B coaching licence.
A Wealth of Coaching Experience
Over the years, Sanni has worked with several Nigerian clubs, including ABS FC, DSS FC, APA United, SKE FC, Heartland FC, Abia Warriors and multiple stints with Kwara United, both as assistant and head coach.
Known for his disciplined and structured approach, Sanni’s teams are typically well organised defensively while allowing attacking freedom in advanced areas.
Though calm on the touchline, his tactical instructions are often evident in his teams’ performances.
Proven Cup Pedigree
During his last eight-month spell at Kwara United, Sanni oversaw 52 matches, recording 25 wins and nine draws.
In addition to the Federation Cup success, he also led the club to victory in the Kwara State FA Cup, underlining his strength in knockout competitions and pressure situations.
New Challenge in Benin Republic
At JS Pobè, the immediate task is clear: improve consistency and secure valuable points in the second half of the season.
With his experience in rebuilding squads and managing tight league battles, the club will be banking on Sanni’s organisational skills to steady results and climb the table.
For Sanni, the move to the Benin Republic represents a new chapter in a long football career built on preparation, discipline and belief in process. The coming months in Pobè will determine how far that experience can take his new side.
