Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Rangers International have unveiled Fidelis Ilechukwu as the replacement for former head coach Abdu Maikaba who left the side last month after the expiration of his contract.
After weeks of rumour linking him with the job, Ilechukwu was unveiled on Wednesday in Enugu as the club begin preparations for the 2023/24 season tentatively scheduled to start on August 26, 2023.
“I must first give thanks to the government of Enugu state, the management of Rangers International F.C, supporters, and the media who are very important in this business,” said an elated Ilechukwu at the event.
“I am so happy to be here as I am very positive about making things work here and getting the needed results to take Rangers to the level it rightly belongs in the two years I have signed.
On his part, the Administrative Secretary of the club, Barrister Ferdinand Ugwuarua, said, “I really want to appreciate God for making this event a reality, just as we owe a lot to the sports-loving governor of Enugu state, H.E, Barrister Peter Mbah, the executive governor for graciously approving this event as well as all critical stakeholders that came out for this event of signing and unveiling of our new technical adviser, coach Fidelis Ilechukwu. This young coach has all it takes to improve his curriculum vitae, and we are solidly behind him to lead us to countless triumphs on the domestic scene for us to have a shot at the continent again.”
Ilechukwu has previously worked as head coach of Heartland and MFM (now defunct) and he has signed a one-year deal with an option of an extension. Fidelis Illechukwu is widely known for his tactical acumen and ability to nurture young talents through his style of play.
He spent two seasons at Plateau United where he led the side to a second-place finish in the league and played in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup qualifying stages last season.
Rangers finished eighth with 21pts from 18 games in Group B of the regular campaign last season and were beaten in the Federation Cup final by Bendel Insurance to miss out on the continental ticket for next season.
