Osun United Football Club is poised to kick off their 2024/2025 Nigerian National League (NNL) season tomorrow, December 7th, 2024, in Lagos against First Bank FC. The Omoluabi Giants, who narrowly missed promotion to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) last season, are eager to make a stronger push this year and clinch the coveted promotion spot.
Futball Naija spoke with the Team Manager of Osun United, Coach Adebayo Adeshina, in a brief telephone interview ahead of the season opener. Coach Adeshina discussed the team’s readiness, additions to the squad, the coaching staff, and the club’s ambitions for the new season.
Team’s Readiness for the New Season
When asked about the team’s preparedness for the upcoming NNL season, Coach Adeshina expressed confidence in his squad. “Yes, Osun United is ready for the season. We had a very good squad last season, and we finished in a strong position. A few players have left the squad, so we’ve added a few new faces to beef up the team. Overall, we are ready for this season,” he said.
Squad Changes for the New Season
Reflecting on last season’s performance, which saw the team finish in third place in Conference Group B with 30 points, just missing out on a playoff spot, Adeshina confirmed that while there were some departures, the club has made strategic additions to enhance the squad. “We’ve made a few signings to strengthen the team, and we are optimistic that this will be the year we make a bigger impact,” he added.
Coaching Staff Confidence
On the subject of the coaching staff, Coach Adeshina expressed unwavering trust in the abilities of the current team of coaches. “I have trust and belief in the coaching crew. They’ve been together for over two years and understand the team better now. I believe in their ability to take this team to greater heights. They can deliver the desired results this season, and we just need to support them,” he said.
Adeshina urged all stakeholders, including fans and football lovers, to rally behind the coaching staff as they aim to propel Osun United to new heights.
Promotion to the NPFL – The Ultimate Goal
Osun United’s primary goal for the 2024/2025 season is clear – promotion to the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL). “The target is to promote the team to the NPFL. We are focused on achieving that goal and we are determined to give our best to make it happen,” Coach Adeshina emphasized.
Government Support for the Team
Addressing the question of government support, Adeshina praised the state government’s commitment to the club. “The government is always ready to support anyone who is ready to deliver results. They have been supportive both physically and financially. This government is ready to help, and they have shown it in their support for the team,” he concluded.
Osun United FC, under the leadership of Coach Oluseye Ajayi, will be hoping that their blend of experience and new talent will push them over the line this season, ensuring that they don’t miss out on the promotion ticket again. With a strong squad, dedicated coaching staff, and government backing, the Omoluabi Giants will be looking to take the next step towards NPFL football when they face First Bank FC tomorrow in Lagos.
