Former Super Eagles Star John Utaka Takes Charge of Montpellier Women’s Team

In a landmark appointment, former Nigerian international John Utaka has been named head coach of Montpellier’s women’s football team in France’s top-tier Division 1 Féminine. The 43-year-old becomes the only African currently managing in France’s elite women’s league.

Utaka, who previously starred for Montpellier’s men’s team during their historic 2011-2012 Ligue 1 title win, returns to the club’s technical staff after serving as assistant coach for their U-19 men’s side. He will share coaching responsibilities with Baptiste Merle under sporting director Jean-Louis Saez.

The ex-forward brings continental experience to the role, having briefly managed the women’s team in 2021 before completing his UEFA A Licence in 2022. His appointment reunites him with Nigerian international Ifeoma Onumonu, who joined Montpellier earlier this year.

Currently fifth in the league, Montpellier will look to Utaka’s attacking pedigree – honed during his playing days across six countries – to close the 11-point gap to third-placed Bordeaux. The Nigerian legend’s extensive European experience positions him uniquely to develop the team’s emerging talents.